At Bollinger, only very exceptional harvests are made into vintage wines. La Grande Année is a blend of 19 crus – mainly Aÿ and Verzenay for the Pinot Noir, Chouilly and Oiry for the Chardonnay, making 61% Pinot Noir and 39% Chardonnay. Fermented entirely in aged oak barrels. This is simultaneously structured, rich and complex, in terms of both its minerality and exceptional intensity.

Tinted with golden glints that reflect the wine’s maturity and Bollinger vinification techniques. A precise and fruity nose with a slight scent of sea-air. Aromas of cherry and lemon mingle with quince and bergamot. Then notes of hazelnut and almond, peach and mirabelle plum complete this wine’s range of aromas. The initial sensation is a fine and intense effervescence, followed by a wonderful vinosity, and then balanced with delicate acidity. Its very fine texture and sea-air finish bring excellent length on the palate, accompanied by a delicate minerality and the complex flavours of orchard fruit and citrus.

This wine unfurls gradually, revealing its full potential and intensity. Enjoy now, or cellar.

“A lovely savoury edge – almost of salty maple syrup – appears on the subtle, salty nose. The palate is taut in shape but rich and generous in flavour, reminiscent of apple streusel with a serene, creamy, smooth texture that is carried and defined by freshness. The mousse is fine, the shape is taut, there is a mouth-watering and appetising saltiness that carries this forward but the creamy richness – of salty buttery streusel – is undeniable. Splendid now, certain to evolve. Utterly fresh, bright, vivid.” 97 points, Falstaff International London Editorial Tastings, 2022

“Raised entirely in barrel, the 2014 Champagne La Grande Année Brut is all about finesse and capturing the cool, mineral tension and floral notes of the vintage. Enhancing those qualities, a bit higher proportion of Chardonnay was used for this release, making up 39% of the blend. It pours a pale straw, and it is layered and persistent with lightly toasted pastry, Mirabel plum liqueur, and saline. The palate is dry and more tightly wound at this stage, with driving citrus, a chalky texture, and a light phenolic finish. Subtle undercurrents of honey and butterscotch should continue to evolve beautifully over the coming decades. Drink 2024-2044. Disgorged December 2021, it has 7 grams per liter of dosage.”
97 points, Audrey Frick, Top 100 Wines 2022, Jeb Dunnuck, November 2022