Drink Dom Perignon to celebrate in style

Dom Perignon 2004, Champagne France $250.00

It's time to celebrate the end of one year and new beginnings in the next and you want to do it in style? Dom is the answer. There are many fine sparkling wines around the world, some are made here but at the very top of the tree there are very few, if any that can rival the iconic, Dom Perignon.

This latest 2004 release is of course sublime as usual. A blend of the classic Champagne varieties, pinot noir and chardonnay, its subtlety is as much its appeal as its power. Toast and brioche with savoury liquorice and mocha greet the nose and the palate to begin. It's a tightly wound wine that gradually reveals more fruit and zest with each sip. Grapefruit and ripe lemon citrus flavours wash over the palate and finish each mouthful with razor-like clarity. This is Champagne at its very best.

You need to take your time with Dom, it's not an experience many of us will ever have and it's easy to miss its beauty if you rush. I've seen many good palates overlook Dom in favour of bigger more in-your-face styles, but if you are after classic Champagne elegance and style, Dom Perignon is the answer. If you really want to celebrate and maybe show off just a little this New year there's possibly no better way than with a bottle of fine Champagne, maybe even a bottle or two of Dom.

- Fergus McGhie is sales and marketing manager at Mount Majura Vineyard in Canberra.