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 statuesque Champagne, with a spine of fine china–like acidity enmeshed in the plush mouthfeel of its finely detailed mousse. That’s an elegant springboard for layers of white cherry, creamed apple and brioche, with a fragrant skein of grated coconut, toasted cumin, anise, acacia blossom and mandarin orange peel accents. A push of salty roasted almond is a subtle but rich and lasting chime on the finish. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Disgorged March 2025. Drink now through 2046.”
97 points, Alison Napjus, Wine Spectator, July 2026

“Bollinger’s 2018 La Grande Année is quite pretty and delicate. Floral and citrus notes are nicely lifted in a Grande Année that offers notable sensuality and grace. Hints of orchard fruit, chamomile, mint and chalk build through the mid-palate and into the taut, chiseled finish. There’s plenty of energy and focus. More importantly, this is a fine effort in a year marked by high yields in Champagne. I would give this a few years in the cellar. The 2018 is 66% Pinot Noir and 34% Chardonnay from 19 villages, 73% Grand Cru and 37% Premier Cru. The core villages are Aÿ, Verzenay and Mareuil for Pinot Noir and Avize, Chouilly and Cuis for the Chardonnay. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged: March 2025”
96 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media, May 2026