Serving Up a Glass of Champagne History – Dom Perignon

Dom Perignon is known today as one of the finest bottles of Champagne produced. Its name originates from Benedictine Monk, Dom Pierre Perignon. Although named after him, the fine bottles of Champagne were not invented by Perignon. Instead, from 1668 until his time of death in 1715, Dom dedicated his time as Cellar Master to perfecting the process, production, and transportation of the Cuvee Champagne.

Hautvillers, an Abbey of Champagne France served as Perignon’s home beginning in 1668. It is known to have one of the best valleys’ terroirs, a French word use to describe a land from where grapes come from in France. Perignon wanted to perfect the process as he believed the time he dedicated, would bring him closer with God.

As cellar master, he was able to perfect the blending of the grapes before being pressed. It is important to know that Dom did not invent blending, but invented blending before pressing. To achieve its light color, Perignon found that separating the grape skins helped immensely during processing. To receive its Cuvee ranking, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes are specifically selected from the best vats or specially blended. 

Perignon even helped to perfect the bottling and transportation of the Champagne. He realized that having thicker bottles would help to prevent explosions. Explosions would happen most during transportation as the gases would build up. Its unique shape is still used today in production. Corking became a better means for sealing the bottles than wood as the corks fit better and helped to keep the bubbles preserved. Champagne drinkers can toast a big bottle pop to Dom Pierre Perignon as a thank you for helping to perfect some of the best bottles created in Champagne’s history!