2008 Dom Perignon P2 Plenitude Brut, Champagne

Intense aromas of green apples, lemongrass, sourdough and rose leaves. Full-bodied and dense, with layers of fruit and a phenolic structure. It's muscular, long and powerful. It just goes on and on. One of the greatest DPs ever made. Drink or hold.

100 points James Suckling

The extra seven years of ageing on lees under cork versus the original Dom Pérignon 2008 release has wrapped up all the year's innate tension and brightness in an unabashedly decadent, enveloping richnnes of toasted nuts, fresh dough and gentle oyster cream, although the precision and integrity of the vintage is absolutely present, too. There are beautiful aromas of pure red strawberry and bergamot with some darker mocha notes emerging, both Chardonnay linearity and a surprisingly fragrant Pinot finding a perfect equilibrium. The palate carries the buzzing acidity of 2008 on a time-softened, ultra-silky mousse, with new details of umami savour tucked in subtly to the overall impression of glacial freshness. Perhaps unsurprisingly given the reputation of the original release, this is among the most memorable and energetic of the Plénitude releases made since the programme of late releases took the name in 2014.

98 points Tom Hewson, Decanter

Some Champagnes become legendary, and the 2008 Dom Pérignon is already firmly in that company. The P2 release takes this extraordinary vintage into another realm, revealing the remarkable transformation that occurs after extended ageing on lees. P2 stands for Plénitude 2, the second stage in Dom Pérignon's ageing philosophy, when the Champagne develops greater intensity, energy and complexity. Named after the Benedictine monk Pierre Pérignon, the house has become synonymous with exceptional vintage Champagne. The 2008 vintage was created under the direction of former cellar master Richard Geoffroy, with Vincent Chaperon continuing its evolution.

The 2008 growing season was cool and demanding before a beautifully sunny September delivered exceptional ripeness and freshness. Widely regarded as one of Champagne's greatest modern vintages, it produced wines of extraordinary balance, concentration and ageing potential. Extended maturation on lees has given this P2 release additional texture, aromatic complexity and remarkable depth while preserving the vintage's famously vibrant acidity.

Brilliant pale gold with delicate green reflections and an exceptionally fine, persistent mousse. Candied lemon, white peach and ripe pear mingle with toasted brioche, roasted hazelnut, white flowers and a subtle suggestion of smoky mineral character. The palate is wonderfully concentrated yet almost weightless, with silky bubbles, vibrant citrus freshness and a beautifully savoury richness. Notes of preserved lemon, almond, chalk and delicate spice unfold through an extraordinarily long, precise finish.

A Champagne deserving of a memorable occasion. Consider freshly caught marron with lemon and tarragon, delicate crab ravioli with saffron, or roasted turbot with fennel and a light shellfish sauce. For something unexpected, try tempura zucchini flowers with whipped ricotta and a little lemon zest.

Cellaring: Drink from release to 2050+. A magnificent Champagne with exceptional ageing potential. Already compelling, although further cellaring should reveal even greater complexity and savoury depth.