Dom Pérignon P3 1983 is a late release from a vintage that was rated modestly on release, yet has aged with real charm. The gift-boxed P3 was disgorged after decades on the lees and sits at the house's final release stage.
About This Champagne
The original 1983 release was light and approachable rather than powerful. The late-disgorged versions have been kinder to it, gaining depth and aroma with the extra years on the lees. American reviewers of the P3 have picked out toast, citrus and exotic notes of lychee and mango, with a firm mousse still in place.
Tasting Profile
- Nose: Toast and yeast, with lychee, mango and ripe citrus, and a caramelised nut note in the background.
- Palate: Medium bodied and lively, with honeyed apple, brioche and orange marmalade over a firm mousse.
- Finish: Layered and long, closing on salted lemon and a hint of seaweed.
Serving & Food
A standard fridge chill of 8 to 10°C is about right, then let it warm a degree or two in the glass. Use a white wine glass. Best opened within the next couple of years. Serve it with har gow and siu mai, grilled prawns with garlic, or a mild washed-rind cheese.
How to Enjoy
A 1983 anniversary, or a friend who prefers elegance and finesse over sheer power.
Product Details
Producer: Dom Pérignon
Region: Champagne, France
Vintage: 1983
Series: P3 / Plénitude 3
Grape Variety: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
Presentation: Gift box
Volume: 750mL
About the Maison
Much of the house's style comes from how it protects the wine from air. Oak casks were used for fermentation up to the 1964 vintage, and since then the base wines have been made in stainless steel. The aim is a clean, reductive wine that shows that smoky, gunflint note Dom Pérignon drinkers look for. Time on the lees then does the rest. The dead yeast cells slowly feed texture and savoury depth into the wine while also shielding it from oxidation, which is why a late release can taste fresher than an older bottle disgorged years ago.