Nothing quite spells luxury and indulgence like a bottle of Dom Perignon Champagne for a special occasion that calls for a celebration.
But if you need to stock up and prepare the bottles in advance, you’ve probably asked, “How long does Dom Pérignon last?”
As someone who has savored the exquisite taste of Dom Perignon Champagne, I’m here to explain all you need to know about its shelf life and how to ensure it will stay fresh until the big day. Read on!
How Long Does Dom Perignon Last
How long Dom Perignon lasts will depend on the storage conditions: opened or unopened Dom Perignon.
A properly stored bottle of unopened Dom Perignon Champagne can preserve its excellence for 7-10 years. However, extending the storage beyond the 10-year mark offers no additional benefits.
An opened Dom Perignon bottle should maintain its taste and quality for approximately 3-4 days (up to five days), thanks to the exceptional quality.
Dom Perignon’s aesthetic ideal is a quest – always refined but never completely achieved – for harmony: the perfect balance of precision, intensity, complexity along with the sensory value of ripeness, vibrancy, lightness.” – Vincent Chaperone, Current Chef De Cave (or Cellar Master)
But for the ultimate experience, I suggest consuming your Dom Perignon Champagne on the day you uncork it.
Since each bottle of Dom Perignon undergoes a few years of aging process in the Moet & Chandon cellars before being released, it’s advisable to savor it immediately.
Quick Fact: Dom Perignon is crafted from grapes grown in Premier Cru and Grand Cru vineyards, some of the best vineyards within the Champagne region in France.
Does Dom Perignon Have A Shelf Life?
Yes, Dom Perignon Champagne does have a shelf life. The longevity of Dom Perignon depends on various factors, including whether the bottle is sealed or opened and how it’s stored.
An unopened bottle of vintage Champagne typically lasts between 7-10 years or more if stored correctly.
However, once opened, the Champagne starts to lose its freshness, and it’s recommended to consume it within 3-4 days for the best taste.
Appropriate storage conditions, such as a stable temperature and protection from light, are essential in extending its lifespan.
The Shelf Life of Dom Perignon Champagne
Unopened Bottle of Champagne
So, how long does Dom Perignon last when unopened? When stored properly, unopened Dom Perignon Champagne bottles can maintain their quality and flavor for 7-10 years.
The key to preserving its excellence is to store Dom Perignon in a cool, dark place with constant temperature. In these conditions, it can age gracefully for several years.
Opened Champagne Bottle
Once you pop a bottle of Champagne, the countdown begins. An opened Dom Perignon Champagne bottle will start losing its fizz and freshness.
However, this doesn’t mean it will become undrinkable overnight. If re-corked with a Champagne stopper and refrigerated, it can stay enjoyable for an additional 1-3 days.
However, it depends on the initial quality of the vintage Champagne and how well it was stored before opening.
Also Read:
Refrigerated Champagne Bottle
Refrigeration plays a vital role in extending the life of an opened bottle of Dom Perignon. If you store Dom Perignon in the fridge, it slows down the oxidation process, preserving the delicate flavors and aromas.
Remember to use a sparkling wine stopper or Champagne sealer to lock the bottle of Champagne tightly, and it should stay palatable for a few days, allowing you to savor it gradually.
Does Dom Pérignon Go Bad?
Yes, Dom Perignon (a Vintage Dom Perignon, Plenitude 2, or Rose) can go bad over time. But if stored correctly, it won’t go bad quickly, unlike a non-vintage Champagne bottle.
You just need to be aware that the longer a bottle of Champagne sits, the more prone it is to degradation, slowly losing its complex aromas, taste, and quality over time, especially if opened.
One piece of advice – minimize exposure to air and temperature fluctuations to preserve its quality for the best flavor.
How Do You Know If Dom Pérignon Is Bad?
Aside from knowing “how long does Dom Perignon last,” you must also know how to distinguish if it has gone bad. Here are some ways to assess its quality:
Aroma Test
Start by giving it a good sniff. A fresh bottle of Dom Perignon typically has more complex aromas: vibrant fruits, flowers, and brioche.
It may be past its prime if it smells musty, vinegary, or simply lacks the characteristic Champagne bouquet.
Taste Test
The most telling indicator of a Champagne’s condition is its taste. When you take a sip, you should experience a lively effervescence, balanced acidity, and a complex flavor profile.
If it’s overly sour and lacks complexity with a flat taste (or any unpleasant taste), it’s a sign that it may have deteriorated. It may taste unpleasant when expired, so it’s no longer advisable to drink Dom Perignon Champage [1].
Appearance Check
Examine the appearance of your Champagne drink. Dom Perignon should be clear and bright. Cloudiness or visible sediments are indicators of deterioration.
However, keep in mind that older Champagnes, like a vintage Dom Perignon, may naturally develop sediments over time, which can be normal.
Proper Storage Tips
Now you know “how long does Dom Perignon last and how to tell if it has gone bad,” let me give some essential storage tips to ensure your precious vintage bottle remains in peak condition.
Unopened
- Keep the Bottle Horizontal: Store unopened bottles of vintage Dom Perignon Champagne on their sides. This keeps the cork moist, preventing it from drying out.
- Steady Temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature of around 55°F (13°C) in your storage area, like a wine fridge [2]. Avoid significant fluctuations, as temperature variations can negatively impact the unopened bottles of Champagne.
Opened
- Use a Champagne Stopper: After opening a bottle, invest in a quality Champagne stopper. These stoppers create a tight seal, minimizing the wine’s exposure to air.
- Refrigerate the Drink: If you plan to enjoy the Dom Perignon Champagne over a few days, store it in the wine fridge, ideally at around 45-50°F (7-10°C). Cold temperatures slow down oxidation.
Should You Keep Dom Pérignon In The Fridge?
Yes, you should refrigerate an opened bottle of Dom Perignon if you intend to drink it over several days.
The cool temperature will help preserve the freshness and carbonation of your Dom Perignon Champagne.
Remember to use a Champagne stopper to maintain the seal and protect it from air exposure.
As for unopened Dom Perignon (even unopened non-vintage Champagne), it’s not necessary to store it in the fridge. Store the bottle in a cool, dark place, like a wine cellar.
How Long Can You Store It?
You can store a bottle of Dom Perignon Champagne for several years, depending on its condition.
Unopened Dom Perignon Champagne, properly stored, can last for many years, even a decade, and continue to evolve in flavor complexity.
“Savor Dom Pérignon, for it’s not just a drink; it’s a timeless celebration in every bottle.” – Liquor Laboratory
Opened Dom Perignon bottles or sparkling wines, on the other hand, should ideally be consumed within 1-3 days if kept in the fridge with a tight seal.
Beyond this timeframe, the Champagne’s quality will noticeably decline. So, it would be much better if you could drink them right away upon opening.
FAQs
Is 1985 Dom Perignon still good?
Yes, 1985 Dom Perignon can still be good if it has been stored properly. Older Champagnes like this can develop complex flavors over time, but their condition largely depends on storage conditions.
Can you drink 20-year-old Champagne?
Yes, you can drink a 20-year-old Champagne (or sparkling wine) as long as it has been stored correctly.
A 20-year-old Champagne can offer a delightful tasting experience, especially if it’s from a good Champagne house like Dom Perignon.
Is Dom Perignon a good investment?
Yes, Dom Perignon can be a good investment. But while Dom Perignon bottles are undoubtedly a luxurious Champagne, their value as an investment depends on various factors, including the specific vintage and market demand.
Some collectors and investors do see potential for profit, but it’s essential to research and consult experts before making such investments.
Should Dom Perignon be chilled?
Yes, Dom Perignon and sparkling wine should be served chilled. The suggested serving temperature is between 45-50°F for non-vintages and slightly cooler for vintage ones.
What factors affect the aging of Dom Pérignon?
Several factors influence how long Dom Pérignon can age, including storage temperature, humidity, light exposure, and bottle orientation. Ideal conditions include storing the bottles horizontally in a dark, cool (around 50-55°F or 10-13°C), and humid environment.
Does Dom Pérignon have an expiration date?
Dom Pérignon Champagne does not have a fixed expiration date like perishable goods. Instead, its quality evolves over time. While most bottles will remain drinkable for many years, they may eventually lose their freshness and vitality, especially if not stored properly.
How can I tell if my Dom Pérignon has gone bad?
Signs of spoilage in Dom Pérignon Champagne include a flattened or off-tasting profile, oxidation (resulting in a brownish color), and the presence of unpleasant odors, such as a musty or moldy smell. If you notice any of these signs, the Champagne may have deteriorated and is no longer enjoyable.
Is it worth aging Dom Pérignon?
Aging Dom Pérignon can enhance its complexity and depth, revealing unique flavors and aromas. However, not all vintages benefit equally from aging, and personal preferences vary. It’s essential to consider the specific characteristics of each vintage and assess whether aging aligns with your taste preferences.
How should I store Dom Pérignon to maximize its lifespan?
To preserve the quality of Dom Pérignon Champagne, store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Avoid storing bottles in the kitchen or near appliances that generate heat. Additionally, maintain a consistent humidity level to prevent cork drying and potential oxidation.
Should I decant Dom Pérignon before serving?
While decanting is not necessary for most Champagnes, including Dom Pérignon, it can help aerate the wine and release its aromas, particularly for older vintages. However, be cautious not to over-decant, as excessive aeration can cause the Champagne to lose its effervescence.
Key Takeaways
So, how long does Dom Perignon last? The shelf life depends on various factors, like the storage method and the type of Champagne.
Unopened bottles of Dom Perignon last 7-10 years, while an opened Dom Perignon lasts about 3-4 days.
But to ensure Dom Perignon remains at its best, proper storage is key. Keep it cool, dark, and shielded from temperature fluctuations.
Remember, Dom Perignon is not just a drink; it’s an experience, a symbol of celebration, and with care, it can continue to sparkle, both in taste and in memory, for years to come.
References:
- https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/champagne
- https://www.marthastewart.com/7992823/what-is-wine-fridge
- https://www.fodors.com/news/photos/10-fun-facts-about-champagne-and-what-makes-this-bubbly-booze-so-special
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/sparkling-wine#
