The 2002 Dom Pérignon P2 is wonderfully open in its aromatics, but a bit less giving on the palate, especially next to the regular release. Lemon confit, white flowers, mint and white pepper open up first, followed by hints of apricot, honey, chamomile and light tropical notes. Interestingly, the P2 is quite a bit less tropical than the original release. Chef de Caves Vincent Chaperon told me he thinks the original release shows more of a buttery character because of the combination of the ripeness of the vintage and the natural evolution of the wine post-disgorgement under crown seal, as opposed to the P2 which stayed much longer on its lees. It is hard to know if that is an exact explanation, but the reality is that the two 2002s are quite far apart stylistically.
Plénitude 2 is the second life of Dom Pérignon, patiently brought to a new elevation and set on a path to eternity. After close to 15 years of slow transformation in the cellars, Dom Pérignon expands its energy and rises to an apex of essential, radiant vitality, in its state of Plénitude. Elevated to new heights, it unfurls across every dimensions – wider, deeper, longer, more intense - and gifted further with an extended longevity.
Its complexity starts out warm, golden, shimmering, with eastern exoticism: crystallized fruits, frangipane, sweet spices, fresh coriander. On the first nose, saffron is greyer and more saline, with the bouquet slowly becoming complex and then more austere, mysterious, clean and soothing.
The flavour instantly unfurls leaving a bright, expressive, delicate aftertaste that is lively yet sensual, and still very fruit-forward. The nose and palate are strikingly similar, and the velvety mouth-feel becomes deeper and richer. The overall result displays intense, elegant, saline and slight licorice notes.