Dom Pérignon, the flagship champagne of LVMH, has introduced the 2017 vintage, marketed as the most limited release in the brand’s history. The house, which traces its name to Benedictine monk Pierre Pérignon and has been part of LVMH since 1987, produces only vintage champagnes; a year is omitted if the harvest does not meet its standards.
The 2017 harvest was marked by a volatile climate. After a dry start, March brought frost, followed by an unusually warm May and June. Early August saw a rapid ripening of Chardonnay grapes, but the second half of the month turned rainy, introducing Botrytis on Chardonnay and sour rot on Pinot Noir. Harvest began on 28 August, the earliest in five decades, a timing previously seen only in 2003, 2007 and 2011.
Strict selection allowed the vintage to proceed. Chardonnay assumes a leading role, a profile the house likens to the 1970 and 2005 vintages, where the white variety also dominated. After fermentation, the wine spent nearly nine years aging on its lees.
Dom Pérignon describes the 2017 release as its most limited ever, citing that a substantial portion of the grapes did not pass the selection criteria. The champagne is currently available in Lausanne, where it was served at the Lausanne Palace’s La Table restaurant during a tasting event.
Tasting notes highlight yellow fruit, candied citrus peel, floral nuances, earthy and mineral tones, and a hint of petrichor. On the palate, the wine offers generous body, ripe fruit, balanced acidity, a touch of salinity and a fine bitterness that provides structure and a long finish. The profile makes it suitable for a wide range of dishes, from crustaceans and firm fish to poultry, veal and roasted vegetables.
Although already approachable, the 2017 vintage is expected to evolve over the next 10‑15 years, especially as the Chardonnay component matures further. Collectors are advised to enjoy a bottle now or cellar several for future drinking.
