The question of whether a vintage champagne, particularly a 1985 Dom Perignon, is still “good” is multifaceted. It’s not a simple yes or no. Age, storage conditions, and personal taste all play crucial roles. A bottle that has been impeccably stored might offer a transcendent experience, while one that has suffered neglect could be a disappointment. Let’s delve into the factors that determine the fate of your 1985 Dom Perignon.
Understanding Vintage Champagne and Aging Potential
Vintage champagne, unlike non-vintage, is produced using grapes harvested from a single year. This means the character of the wine is heavily influenced by the specific weather conditions and terroir of that year. 1985, particularly in Champagne, was considered a very good year, producing wines with excellent structure and aging potential.
The aging potential of a vintage champagne like Dom Perignon is significantly influenced by its acidity, sugar levels, and phenolic compounds. These elements act as preservatives, allowing the wine to evolve and develop complex flavors over time. However, even with these factors in its favor, proper storage is paramount.
The Crucial Role of Storage Conditions
How your 1985 Dom Perignon has been stored is perhaps the single most important determinant of its current condition. Ideal storage conditions mimic those found in a cool, dark cellar.
Temperature: The Silent Killer
Temperature fluctuations are the enemy of wine. Ideally, champagne should be stored at a constant temperature between 50°F and 65°F (10°C to 18°C). Warmer temperatures accelerate the aging process, potentially leading to a prematurely oxidized wine. Conversely, freezing temperatures can damage the cork and alter the wine’s composition.
Even relatively small temperature swings can have a cumulative negative effect over decades. A bottle stored consistently at 75°F (24°C) will degrade much faster than one kept at a stable 55°F (13°C).
Light: A Source of Degradation
Exposure to light, especially sunlight and fluorescent lighting, can cause “lightstrike,” a chemical reaction that alters the wine’s aroma and flavor. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable in clear glass bottles. Dark storage is crucial to protect the wine’s integrity.
Humidity: Cork’s Best Friend
Maintaining adequate humidity, ideally between 50% and 80%, is essential for keeping the cork moist. A dry cork can shrink, allowing air to enter the bottle and oxidize the wine. Storing the bottle horizontally helps to keep the cork in contact with the wine, further preventing it from drying out.
Vibration: A Subtle Threat
Excessive vibration can disrupt the delicate chemical balance within the wine, potentially leading to a loss of effervescence and a dulling of flavors. Storing the bottle in a location free from excessive movement is recommended.
Signs That Your 1985 Dom Perignon Might Be Past Its Prime
Even with optimal storage, age can take its toll. There are several telltale signs that your 1985 Dom Perignon might not be at its best.
Cork Condition: The First Indicator
Carefully examine the cork before opening the bottle. Is it protruding slightly? Is it dry, cracked, or moldy? These are all warning signs. A compromised cork suggests that air has entered the bottle, potentially oxidizing the wine.
Fill Level: A Clue to Oxidation
Check the fill level of the bottle. If the wine level is significantly below the expected fill line (often referred to as “ullage”), it indicates that evaporation has occurred, likely due to a compromised cork. Lower fill levels increase the risk of oxidation.
Color: A Sign of Evolution, or Decline?
Champagne typically deepens in color as it ages. A 1985 Dom Perignon will naturally have a more golden hue than a younger vintage. However, an excessively dark amber or brownish color could indicate that the wine is oxidized.
Aroma and Flavor: The Ultimate Test
The ultimate test, of course, is in the tasting. A well-aged 1985 Dom Perignon should exhibit complex aromas of brioche, honey, nuts, and dried fruit. The palate should be rich, balanced, and have a lingering finish. If, however, the wine smells or tastes oxidized (e.g., like sherry or vinegar), it’s likely past its prime. A lack of effervescence is also a concerning sign.
What to Expect From a Well-Preserved 1985 Dom Perignon
If your 1985 Dom Perignon has been properly stored, you can anticipate a truly exceptional experience. The wine should have developed a remarkable complexity and depth of flavor that only time can bestow.
Expect aromas of toasted brioche, honey, marzipan, and dried apricot. The palate should be rich and creamy, with a fine mousse and a long, elegant finish. The acidity should still be present, providing balance and structure. It should be a nuanced and sophisticated wine, far removed from the fresh, youthful character of a younger vintage.
How to Open and Serve an Older Champagne
Opening and serving an older champagne requires a delicate touch.
Chilling: The Right Temperature
Chill the bottle gradually in the refrigerator for several hours or in an ice bucket for about 30 minutes. Avoid shocking the bottle with rapid temperature changes. The ideal serving temperature is between 45°F and 50°F (7°C to 10°C).
Opening: Gently Does It
Remove the foil and carefully loosen the wire cage. Hold the cork firmly while gently twisting the bottle (not the cork) at a 45-degree angle. Apply gentle pressure until the cork slowly releases with a soft sigh, rather than a loud pop. This helps to preserve the precious bubbles.
Glassware: Choosing the Right Vessel
Serve the champagne in tulip-shaped glasses. These glasses allow the aromas to develop and concentrate, while also showcasing the wine’s effervescence. Avoid using flutes, which tend to dissipate the aromas too quickly.
Pouring: A Careful Approach
Pour the champagne slowly and carefully, tilting the glass at an angle to preserve the bubbles. Don’t fill the glass to the brim; leave some space for the aromas to develop.
Factors Affecting Market Value of 1985 Dom Perignon
If your 1985 Dom Perignon is in excellent condition, it could be quite valuable. Several factors influence its market value.
Provenance: A Trusted Source
Wines with a clear and verifiable provenance, meaning a well-documented history of ownership and storage, command higher prices. Wines purchased directly from the winery or a reputable merchant are generally more valuable.
Condition: Pristine is Paramount
The condition of the bottle, label, and cork significantly affects its value. Bottles with pristine labels and undamaged corks are more desirable to collectors.
Rarity: Supply and Demand
The scarcity of a particular vintage or cuvée influences its price. While 1985 Dom Perignon is not exceedingly rare, its age and the potential for exceptional quality make it sought after by collectors.
Market Trends: Fluctuations in Price
The market for fine wines is subject to trends and fluctuations. Economic conditions, collector preferences, and expert reviews can all influence prices.
Expert Opinions and Tasting Notes on 1985 Dom Perignon
Wine critics and experts have consistently praised the 1985 Dom Perignon for its elegance, complexity, and aging potential. Many describe it as a classic vintage with a remarkable balance of fruit, acidity, and minerality.
Tasting notes often include descriptions of brioche, honey, citrus, and hazelnut aromas, followed by a rich, creamy palate with a long, lingering finish. Critics have also noted the wine’s ability to age gracefully, developing even greater complexity over time.
Conclusion: To Open or to Sell?
Ultimately, the decision of whether to open or sell your 1985 Dom Perignon depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. If you’re a wine lover who appreciates the experience of tasting a well-aged champagne, and you’re confident that the bottle has been properly stored, then opening it might be the perfect choice.
However, if you’re more interested in the potential financial gain, and you’re unsure about the wine’s condition, then selling it to a reputable wine auction house or dealer might be a better option.
Regardless of your decision, it’s important to carefully consider all of the factors discussed in this article. A 1985 Dom Perignon is a valuable and potentially extraordinary wine, and it deserves to be treated with respect.
Enjoy the journey, and hopefully, your 1985 Dom Perignon will provide a memorable experience, whether enjoyed or sold. Remember that even if the wine isn’t perfect, opening it can still be a learning experience. It’s a chance to appreciate the history and craftsmanship that went into creating it, and to understand the effects of time and storage on a truly special wine.
What are the primary factors that determine if a 1985 Dom Perignon is still good?
The primary factors determining the viability of a 1985 Dom Perignon revolve around storage conditions and the inherent qualities of the vintage itself. Proper storage, characterized by consistent cool temperatures (around 55-65°F), minimal light exposure, and stable humidity (around 70%), is paramount. Fluctuations in temperature or prolonged exposure to light can drastically accelerate aging and degrade the wine’s flavor profile. The 1985 vintage itself is generally considered a good year for Champagne, offering a balance of acidity and fruit, making it potentially long-lived if stored correctly.
Beyond storage, the integrity of the cork is critical. A dry or compromised cork allows oxygen ingress, which leads to oxidation and spoilage. Look for signs of leakage or bulging, which are indicative of potential problems. Even with ideal storage, a 1985 Dom Perignon is nearing its peak, and while it might still offer an enjoyable experience, the fruit characteristics may have evolved into more tertiary flavors such as toast, nuts, or honey.
How should a 1985 Dom Perignon be stored to maximize its longevity?
To maximize the longevity of a 1985 Dom Perignon, it should be stored in a dedicated wine cellar or a cool, dark, and humid environment. The ideal temperature range is between 55-65°F (13-18°C), and temperature fluctuations should be minimized as much as possible. Avoid storing the bottle near sources of heat or vibration, such as refrigerators or washing machines. Humidity levels should be around 70% to prevent the cork from drying out and allowing air to enter the bottle.
Furthermore, it’s best to store the bottle horizontally to keep the cork moist and maintain a proper seal. Protect it from direct sunlight and artificial light by storing it in a dark location or wrapping it in opaque material. Remember, the goal is to replicate the conditions found in a traditional underground wine cellar, where temperature, humidity, and light are consistently controlled to promote slow, graceful aging.
What are the potential signs that a 1985 Dom Perignon has gone bad?
Several telltale signs indicate a 1985 Dom Perignon might have passed its prime. One of the most obvious is a brownish or amber hue, signaling oxidation. A healthy Champagne should retain a golden or straw-like color. A flat or overly fizzy appearance, compared to the expected delicate mousse, is another red flag, suggesting either a loss of carbonation or secondary fermentation due to contamination.
Beyond appearance, the aroma and taste will provide further clues. A bad bottle might exhibit aromas of vinegar, wet cardboard, or a generally stale or musty odor. On the palate, flavors of bitterness, sourness, or a complete lack of fruit are strong indicators of spoilage. If the wine tastes dull or lifeless, with none of the vibrant acidity and complex flavors it should possess, it’s likely no longer enjoyable.
What is the expected flavor profile of a well-preserved 1985 Dom Perignon at this age?
A well-preserved 1985 Dom Perignon at this age would showcase a complex and evolved flavor profile, moving beyond the fresh fruit characteristics of its youth. Expect notes of toasted brioche, honey, marzipan, and dried apricot. The autolytic character, resulting from extended aging on the lees, should be prominent, contributing a creamy texture and nuanced flavors of pastry and nuts.
The acidity, while softened with age, should still provide a refreshing lift, balancing the richer, more developed flavors. The bubbles might be finer and less aggressive than in its younger years, but they should still contribute to the wine’s overall elegance. Tertiary notes like mushroom and subtle earthy undertones could also be present, adding depth and complexity to the experience.
Is it safe to drink a 1985 Dom Perignon if it has been stored improperly?
While it is generally considered safe to drink a 1985 Dom Perignon that has been stored improperly, the taste and overall experience might be significantly diminished, and potentially unpleasant. Improper storage can lead to oxidation, which alters the flavor profile and degrades the wine’s quality. The primary concern is the loss of the wine’s intended characteristics, not necessarily a health risk.
However, if there are visible signs of spoilage, such as mold or excessive sediment, or if the wine has a foul odor, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard the bottle. Consuming wine that has undergone significant microbial contamination could potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset, although this is rare. Your sensory assessment is usually a reliable indicator of whether the wine is safe and enjoyable to drink.
Can a professional wine appraiser determine the condition of a 1985 Dom Perignon without opening the bottle?
A professional wine appraiser can assess the likely condition of a 1985 Dom Perignon without opening the bottle, but their evaluation will be based on indirect evidence and educated estimations. They will examine the bottle for signs of leakage, such as staining around the cork, and assess the fill level, which indicates potential evaporation. They will also look at the color of the wine through the glass, noting any browning or discoloration.
However, the ultimate determination of the wine’s condition requires opening and tasting. While a visual inspection can reveal potential problems like a compromised cork or excessive oxidation, it cannot definitively assess the wine’s aromas, flavors, and overall quality. The appraiser’s expertise lies in interpreting these external signs to provide a reasonable estimate of the wine’s condition and value before opening.
What is the best way to serve a 1985 Dom Perignon to fully appreciate its qualities?
To fully appreciate the qualities of a 1985 Dom Perignon, it’s essential to serve it at the correct temperature and in appropriate glassware. Chill the bottle to around 45-50°F (7-10°C) for a couple of hours before serving. Avoid freezing or rapidly chilling the wine, as this can diminish its delicate aromas and flavors. Use a proper Champagne flute or tulip-shaped glass to enhance the effervescence and concentrate the aromas.
When opening the bottle, do so gently to minimize the loss of bubbles. Pour slowly, allowing the wine to settle and release its aromas. Take a moment to appreciate the color and effervescence before taking a sip. Pair it with complementary foods such as aged cheeses, nuts, or dishes with subtle earthy flavors to enhance the overall tasting experience. Enjoy responsibly and savor the unique characteristics of this vintage Champagne.