The newly released Bollinger Grande Année 2018 is a truly excellent wine. The vintage is, quite rightly, being hailed for its wonderful quality and generous style, qualities that suit Bollinger's distinctive and much-loved house style very well. This is a compelling Champagne of depth, harmony and immediate appeal. Don't miss the chance to reserve it.
Order by midday on Thursday 2nd April
Few houses in Champagne command the same respect as Bollinger. With vineyard-owning roots in the region dating back to the 16th century and the house formally established in 1829, Bollinger has long been associated with richly textured, ageworthy Champagnes of distinctive character.
Unusually, Bollinger has always been both grower and producer, with most of the fruit sourced from its own vineyards. La Grande Année is produced only in vintages of particular merit and the 2018 is a classic pinot-noir-led blend (66%, alongside 34% chardonnay), drawn from grand and premier cru villages including Aÿ, Verzenay, Chouilly and Avize.
Fermented in small, seasoned oak barrels and aged under natural cork for around seven years on the lees, the wine offers aromas of citrus, white peach and orchard fruit, with hints of toasted almond and brioche. The palate is creamy yet precise, with chalky freshness and a long, poised finish – a classic expression of both the vintage and the Bollinger style.
