Famous the world over, vintage Champagne producer Dom Pérignon takes its name from Dom Pierre Pérignon, a Benedictine monk and 17th century winemaker known to have pioneered the blending of grapes from various vineyeards. The legend of Dom Pierre has been exaggerated over the years, and it's no longer believed that he invented Champagne back in 1693, nor that he proclaimed "Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!" as he did it. It's proved an exciting and resilient origin story over the years nonetheless.
Exclusively releasing vintage Champagnes, Dom Pérignon is a prestige cuvée made solely from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes (different proportions for different vintages and releases) harvested during a single year. The wine is then aged on the lees for a minimum of seven years before release. Like other vintage Champagnes, a vintage will only be released if the quality is sufficiently excellent.
Dom Pérignon was first released in 1921 as Moët & Chandon's top cuvée, but production between the brands has been separate since the 1940s.