Disgorged in the second half of 2019, the latest release of Bollinger's NV Brut Special Cuvée is based on the 2015 vintage, complemented by around 60% reserve wines. A blend of 60% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay, and 15% Meunier. The wine is still quite tightly wound after its recent disgorgement, opening in the glass with notes of crisp yellow orchard fruit, freshly baked bread, clear honey and orange peel, with little sign of the nuttiness to come with bottle age. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, muscular and incipiently textural, with a deep core, ripe acids and a pinpoint mousse. The Bollinger style: depth and subtlety. A majority of reserve wines, part of which have been aged in magnums for 5 to 15 years.
Surely the most underpriced champagne on the market today, yet one of the most complex. The 60/25/15% pinot noir/chardonnay/pinot Meunier blend is of scant importance compared with the 400 components with 60% reserves, the oldest 8+ years old. Majestically complex and layered in a jewelled crown of freshness.
Cultured Butter, on toasted teacake. Lifted caramelised apple and custard. Fine, firm bead…Great acidity well integrated. Citrus and pithy back palate keeps it fresh, with acid verve to a long finish.