Dom Pérignon is an iconic vintage champagne brand named after the Benedictine monk who was a key pioneer in the production of high-quality sparkling wines. The first vintage of Dom Pérignon was harvested in 1921 but was not released for sale until 1936. Until the 1943 vintage, the champagne was produced from the regular vintage of Moët & Chandon, transferred into special 18th-century style bottles after a lengthy aging process. From 1947 onwards, Dom Pérignon began to be produced independently, from harvest to bottling. Dom Pérignon is always a vintage champagne, meaning that all grapes used in production are harvested in the same year, and the wine is not made in years considered to be of inferior quality. The blend consists of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, with variations in each vintage. With a solid reputation, Dom Pérignon is frequently traded at wine auctions, where it is known as "DP." Since 2004, a series of record prices at auctions has begun, highlighting its appreciation in the fine wine market.