Levi KeswickKey takeaways:
- Both Dom Perignon and Veuve Clicquot are prestigious champagne brands but have distinct taste profiles.
- Dom Perignon is celebrated for its fresh acidity and minerality, whereas Veuve Clicquot stands out for its blend of vibrant apple, citrus, and grape flavors.
- The difference in taste originates from their distinct brewing processes and choice of ingredients.
- There’s a significant difference in price points, with Dom Perignon generally being more expensive.
- The final choice between the two depends on individual preferences and the occasion at hand.
Dom Perignon vs. Veuve Clicquot: Unfolding the Legacy
Both Dom Perignon and Veuve Clicquot are highly esteemed champagne brands, yet they carry unique histories. Veuve Clicquot owes its creation to Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin, also known as the ‘First Lady of Champagne-making’. Widowed at 27, she channeled her energy into creating the fine wine, hence the name ‘Veuve Clicquot’, meaning ‘widow Clicquot’ in French.
On the contrary, Dom Perignon was named after Dom Pierre Pérignon, a Benedictine monk whose contributions significantly improved the quality of champagne. The wine saw its first release on New Year’s Eve 1936, bottled by Moët & Chandon, who bought the vineyard and Abbey where Pérignon worked.
Art of the Craft: Process and Ingredients
The making of Veuve Clicquot and Dom Perignon diverge in technique and ingredients, resulting in their unique taste profiles. Veuve Clicquot uses a process called ‘riddling’. After stages such as pressing, fermentation, blending, and maturing, the bottles are turned upside down and twisted, enabling the yeast to gather at the bottle’s neck. The champagne’s main ingredient is grapes, occasionally blended with other fruits for additional flavor.
In contrast, Dom Perignon follows the ‘assemblage’ method, where red wine is converted separately and then blended into white base wines before being bottled for secondary fermentation. This brand is typically made with an equal proportion of red (Pinot Noir) and white (Chardonnay) grapes.
A Matter of Cost: Veuve Clicquot vs. Dom Perignon
The distinction between Veuve Clicquot and Dom Perignon further extends to their price points. Veuve Clicquot is relatively more budget-friendly, with a 750ml bottle costing around $50. The price of vintage Veuve Clicquot, however, can vary significantly, ranging from $70 to a staggering $40,000.
On the other hand, Dom Perignon is a pricier option, with prices starting from $185 and increasing exponentially based on the champagne’s age. A bottle of Dom Perignon 1959, for instance, is priced around $84,700. This makes Dom Perignon more of a luxury choice, often chosen for special occasions to make a statement.
Veuve Clicquot vs. Dom Perignon: The Verdict
Both Dom Perignon and Veuve Clicquot bring their own unique charm to the table, each boasting distinct characteristics that appeal to different champagne lovers. While Veuve Clicquot’s fruity flavors may captivate one, others might be more drawn to Dom Perignon’s fresh acidity and minerality.
The ultimate decision between the two would depend on one’s personal preference, the occasion, and, quite importantly, the budget. Both brands promise a memorable champagne experience, making them timeless favorites in the world of fine wines. The “Veuve Clicquot vs. Dom Perignon” debate, therefore, continues to spark conversations among champagne enthusiasts, further adding to the allure of these remarkable beverages.
