Bollinger La Grande Annee Brut, Champagne, France 2018

La Grande Année Brut 2018 is a serious, collector-worthy vintage Champagne and a great example of Bollinger’s traditional, vinous style. Produced only in exceptional years, the 2018 comes from 19 Grand and Premier Cru villages, with 66% Pinot Noir and 34% Chardonnay. The Pinot Noir is anchored by Aÿ, Verzenay and Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, while the Chardonnay comes principally from Chouilly and Cuis.

The wine was fermented entirely in oak barrels, aged under natural cork, and given extended lees aging before being riddled and disgorged by hand. The 2018 shows impressive freshness despite the warm vintage, with citrus, Granny Smith apple, white peach, apricot, fresh almond, brioche, acacia honey and chalky minerality. The palate is rich and structured, with a creamy mousse and a long, elegant finish.

"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" Vinous 96