A Tribute to Andy Warhol by Dom Perignon

Isobel SalterChampagne, WinesLeave a Comment

Reinterpreting the classic label, with just a pop of colour

In 2010, Dom Pérignon sought the help of the Design Laboratory at Central Saint Martin’s School to produce unique designs, in celebration of the world-class artist and pioneer of pop art, Andy Warhol. They reinterpreted the iconic bottle, producing coloured labels which honour the style of Warhol’s art and flamboyant character.

It was well know that Warhol was one of many who regularly attended the iconic nightclub, Studio 54, downing Dom Pérignon on the dance floor. Here, their label became part of his image; an image

of luxury, opulence and glamour.  He often spoke of his love for Dom Pérignon, and referenced it several times in his diaries. He once wrote about a group of men who were collecting 2000 bottles of DP in the 80s, putting them away ready for a celebration of the millennium on New Year’s Eve 2000. Warhol was one of many who perceived DP as the pinnacle of grandeur.

There is a real synergy by combining such an iconic label, with the vibrant colours which are synonymous with Warhol’s work. This was the first time DP had ever revisited their iconic label, and these are still the most-prized of their design editions, further engraining their luxury logo into pop culture. The bottles are available individually, or we have 1 original case available – these are very rare and real collector’s items.

As a limited edition, the 2002 Dom Pérignon Andy Warhol bottles are sought after by collectors and champagne enthusiasts, often commanding higher prices on the secondary market due to their unique design and the prestige of the vintage. Champagne, like art, can increase with value over time.

Tasting note

“Extraordinarily firm, confident, intense nose. Definitely the savoury side of Dom. Nothing remotely sweet or fat – though it’s as intense as a Montrachet. Wonderful quality of mousse – surely slightly less bubbly than it has been? More like a Montrachet with a bit of carbon dioxide laced into it than a typical champagne. Broad and long with a hint of orange peel. Great persistence. This already delivers but has such backbone and great acidity and light grip (only noticeable at the very end of the tasting experience) that it surely has a long life ahead of it. Really reaches every hidden cell of the palate. A very assured performance. LVMH at its very best?”
20/20, Jancis Robinson (tasted Aug 2010)

“I remember the first time I tasted the 2002 Dom Pérignon with then-Chef de Caves Richard Geoffrey at Hautvillers. It was the upcoming release at the time. As was his custom, Geoffrey served the 2002 in a flight that included a number of previous releases. The bouquet was immediately stunning for its audacity. I had never tasted anything like it. Two thousand-two was a year marked by extreme ripeness in the Chardonnays, and that opulence has always been a big part of the wine’s profile. Today, what strikes me most about the 2002 is its timelessness. That youthful opulence remains, yet the 2002 is still vibrant, almost shocking in its freshness. Apricot, ripe peach, tangerine oil, butter and dried flowers all build towards a captivating crescendo of aromas and flavours that saturates the finish. Readers can look forward to another two decades of exceptional drinking.”
98/100, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (tasted Dec 2022)

Vintage report

The 2002 vintage for Champagne was excellent, perhaps one of the best.
The winter was cold and frosty and moved slowly towards a late spring. However, when it did arrive, spring was ideal allowing for a successful flowering. A warm summer brought dry, sunny days ripening pertly.
The resulting wines were beautifully balanced and opulent with high alcohol and sharp acidity. As many had the capacity to cellar, there should still be some very good options for drinking now. This vintage is synonymous with prestige.

Producer

Dom Pérignon is a world-class producer of vintage Champagne, named after a Benedictine monk who was an important quality pioneer for Champagne. Dom Pierre Pérignon nurtured an ambition to create the ‘best wine in the world’. Three centuries later, the brand still perpetuates his vision, and he is now considered to be the spiritual father of Champagne.

The first vintage of DP, the 1921, was first released for sale in 1936. 300 bottles were imported by Simon Bros & Co., then sold to some of their best customers to commemorate their centenary. The wine gained immediate recognition, so further bottles were then shipped to the UK.

DP is always a vintage champagne, only made in the best years, with the final composition of grapes varying on vintage. Thus, each vintage is unique and represents the unique character of the seasons. Each year, it comes down to the Chef de Cave to decide if a vintage will be declared. The assemblage is the foundation of the Dom Pérignon style. It is guided by timeless principles that have always taken precedence over winemaking techniques and their evolution.

It has been the favourite wine of nobility for many years. In 1971, the Shah of Iran ordered several bottles of the first vintage of their Rosé (1959) for the 2,500-year celebration of the Persian Empire. It was also chosen for the wedding of Charles and Diana, where bottles of the 1961 vintage labelled with a special insignia were used.

They have cemented their reputation as one of the world’s finest producers of Champagne over their rich history and consistent production of exceptional vintages.

This edition not only offers a high-quality champagne experience but also serves as a piece of art and history, blending the worlds of fine wine and contemporary art.

View the case online here

Discover more from Dom Perignon 

Isobel SalterA Tribute to Andy Warhol by Dom Perignon

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