One secret of the Dom Pérignon style is its subtle and intriguing balance of youth and maturity, allowing the wine to age gracefully for an unlimited time. Vintages are only released after 7 years of ageing; a small portion of each vintage is kept on the lees even longer, to continue the evolution and magnify its natural qualities.

When a vintage is released for a second time, as decreed by the Dom Pérignon cellar master, it merits the "Œnothèque" (Wine Library) label. The Œnothèque label indicates that a Dom Pérignon vintage has reached either its second peak in maturity, with optimised intensity (15 to 20 years after harvest), or its third peak, with optimised complexity (after 30 years on the lees).

The 1971 harvest: The year consisted of a cold, dry winter and spring frosts which affected a considerable part of the vineyard. Flowering in June took place in difficult, stormy conditions. Nonetheless, a beautiful wine was been released: on the nose, the wine is intense and incise as well as complex. Fruit notes and roast, toasted and spicy aromas succeed each other and mingle, creating a bouquet evoking a certain restraint.

In the mouth: On the palate, the sensation is one of remarkable freshness, structured, full and powerful. The finish is impressive, reminiscent of elegance, persistent vigour, with nuances of smoked wood and peppery vanilla.

Very limited supply.