Bollinger La Grande Année 2014

Grape Makeup:

61% Pinot Noir, 39% Chardonnay

Sweetness Level:

Brut

Ageing on Lees:

8 years

Price:

$$$

Cellar:

10+ years

Category:

Celebration

What

Founded in 1829, the second largest independent house is still run exclusively by Bollinger family members.  It is adored for its rich, oxidative style and pioneering use of long lees ageingand late disgorgement (the R.D. cuvée).

Where

Aÿ, Vallée de la Marne; 179 hectares of their own vineyards in Aÿ, Avenay, Tauxières, Louvois and Verzenay (for pinot, which is predominant), Cuis (for chardonnay) and Champvoisy (for meunier), with well over 50% of the grapes coming from estate vineyards.

Why

La Grande Année is one of the great vintage champagne cuvées and is always among the most luxuriant in the region.  The 2014 vintage adds a delicacy of texture and grace note of acidity to this hedonism, making it a delight even for those who prefer a leaner style of bubbles.

What Else

Madame Lily Bollinger gave us the immortal quote about champagne: “I drink it when I’m happy and when I’m sad. Sometimes I drink it when I’m alone. When I have company I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it if I’m not hungry and I drink it when I am. Otherwise I never touch it, unless I’m thirsty”.

Tasting Notes

Dark, toasty, rich and nutty, this is classic Bolly. The nose is a blast of baked apples, campfire, gingerbread cake and even sticky toffee pudding. There is all of this and more on the palate, with a hint of milk chocolate, but the freshness of the acidity and the medium weight make this work rather beautifully. The lack of texture and bitterness in this case feels like an advantage, as they would only add to the sense of heaviness. Remarkably balanced and fine, this finishes with yummy barley sugar notes that linger for ages.

Try It With

Rich meaty dishes that meld well with sweet caramelised sauces.

When To Drink

After dinner.

Perfect For

Your favourite Oxbridge friend.

TL/DR

Toasty, rich and nutty.

Supplier

Jebsen