RACY CHAMPAGNE DP
Moët & Chandon - Champagne Dom Pérignon Rosé 1996

Popping a bottle of DP is akin to going for a ride in a Ferrari; when it comes to high-end products like this one, it does not get much better. It does require some training, education and an adjustment in expectations to fully appreciate such a fine indulgence. But once you clear all those factors, the addiction level rises and good old Pierre Pérignon—who is often credited with having invented the stuff in the first place—smiles from his tomb in the magical Hautvillier Abbey. Just like an Italian stallion, this premium bubbly ($400 MSRP) is full of life and ready to race. Keep in mind that the juice is already 10 years old, and we feel that its youth will linger easily for another decade, later taking on some more sophisticated characteristics. We are sure you’ll want to drink it right away (if you can even find a bottle), but we’d strongly advise holding on to it. A classic like this is sure to appreciate at auction, as well. Dr. Richard Geoffroy, Chef de Cave for Moët’s Dom Pérignon luxury brand, expects perfection from his cellars. We all think 1996 was a stellar year for Champagne, and this racy and sensuous bottle is sure to please the connoisseur, collector and celebrity.

Rating: 17/20
Price: $400

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