Thanks to Johnny for sharing this fine bubbly and nice photos!
Moet et Chandon Cuvee Dom Perignon 1988 Brut Champagne

(750ml bottle)

Grape proportions: 55% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay

Tasted in May, 2010

Served upon uncorking.

Intense golden robe, with regularly spaced fine bubbles in leisurely effervescence.

Evolved, wild and rocking -- right from the start!

The bouquet constantly evolves in the glass from praline, seaside note, walnut to cheese and white chocolate. The palate is exciting and satisfying: wonderfully rich, almost syrupy, but in no way heavy or dull – thanks to the power of acidity and depth of minerality. Intense flavour of praline dominates the show, with imprints of walnut and white chocolate onto the finish.

10 minutes after uncorking, second pouring: well chilled, the nose is dominated by seaside note (minerality); when warmed up, the bouquet takes on honeyed richness.

About 20 minutes after uncorking: the palate takes on the merest stringency of bitter chocolate. Sheer class!

35 minutes: here it comes -- DP’s classic nut-toffee bouquet is right in your face! On the palate, white chocolate and praline still seduce the taste buds, with fine finish of bitter chocolate.

37 minutes: what a lovely bouquet of milk chocolate!

43 minutes: apart from the lingering flavours of praline and white chocolate, a calming tone of coffee now greets your palate.

53 minutes: now comes the butterscotch flavour as a satisfying encore…

This is the wildest DP I’ve ever encountered. I just love the firm and classic vintage of 1988!

So here ends tasting Part I of our 88 bubbly duo.

Part II ' Pol Roger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill 88 ' to be continued...