Dom Perignon vs. Cristal: What’s the Difference?

Dom Perignon and Crystal are the top luxury champagne brands in the world. Their main difference is in their blend. Dom Perignon uses equal amounts of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, while Cristal uses a 45%-55% blend. This gives these two brands a slight difference in terms of taste even if they are made from the same region.

Dom Perignon vs.Cristal – Understanding the Differences

Dom Perignon and Cristal are both Champagne. However, they are different in terms of ingredients, taste, price, and other aspects.

Dom Perignon vs. Cristal: Which is the Best?

Cristal had a 100-point score from Wine & Spirits magazine in 2002. Over two decades later, it is still one of the most sought-after Champagnes in the world because of its excellent reputation and quality.

When it comes to the best brands of Champagne, Dom Perignon is one of the best. It’s only made with the best quality grapes and was never produced in weak years. With highly refined techniques, Dom Perignon has exceptional flavors and quality that make its price point reasonable.

Dom Perignon vs. Cristal: What Are They Made From?

Dom Perignon is made of 50% Chardonnay and 50% Pinot Noir. It is manufactured somewhere in the Champagne region of France.

On the other hand, Cristal is made of equal amounts of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. Similar to Dom Perignon, it is also manufactured in the Champagne region of France.

Dom Perignon vs. Cristal Price: Which is More Expensive?

Both Dom Perignon and Cristal are some of the most expensive Champagne in the world.

A bottle of Cristal Brut Vintage costs around $229. On the other hand, its equivalent for Dom Perignon starts at $209. However, there are some bottles of Dom Perignon that have a higher retail value compared to Cristal.

Dom Perignon vs. Cristal: Taste & Flavors

Dom Perignon has mature fruit-tasting notes. It also has bright fruit flavors with hints of coffee, toast, vanilla, and other subtle spices.

In contrast, Cristal champagnes are described to have a juicy fruit taste. Meanwhile, its flavors are typically creamy and honey-like.

Dom Perignon Rose vs. Cristal Rose

Dom Perignon Rose is a regal pink Champagne made with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir blend. On your first sip of it, you will notice a sweet taste that is also warm and full. You will also get surprising notes of vanilla, fruit, and undergrowth.

On the other hand, Cristal Rose is made with 45% Chardonnay and 55% Pinot Noir. You will immediately notice its intense aroma upon the first sip. It also has sweet flavors of caramel, white flowers, red fruits, and Tarte Tatin.

Dom Perignon 2008 vs. Cristal 2008

The 2008 vintage is known as the best vintage in history in Champagne. The Dom Perignon 2008, in particular, scored 2.5 times the average compared to the brand’s 1988 vintage released in the late 90s. Since Cristal is also made in Champagne with the region’s grape, it’s only natural for its 2008 vintage to be equally good as Dom Perignon.

Dom Perignon vs. Cristal: Is it Worth It?

Dom Perignon is worth the money, even if it’s so expensive. The quality is indisputable. At the same time, it’s a long-standing symbol of luxury.

If you can afford the price tag of Cristal, then it’s definitely worth trying. You are literally getting only the best ingredients, which is why it’s so expensive. Good harvest does not happen yearly, so there are limited resources.

Dom Perignon vs Cristal Champagne: Quick Comparison

Dom Perignon or Cristal: Which is Better?

Dom Perignon is better if you want to taste a symbol of luxury. On the other hand, Cristal is better for those looking for a premium champagne experience.

Final Verdict

Both Dom Perignon and Cristal are excellent champagne brands in their own rights. Given the amount of care put into choosing the best grapes and techniques in the manufacturing process for both champagne, their high price tags are understandable.

Which one do you prefer; Dom Perignon or Cristal? Let us know in the comment section!