Bollinger La Grande Année is a prestige vintage Champagne crafted entirely from 100% Grands and Premiers Crus, composed of 60% Pinot Noir from Verzenay, Aÿ, and Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, and 40% Chardonnay from Chouilly and Avize. The grapes are vinified in oak barrels, and the wine is aged under natural cork for more than twice the minimum duration required by the appellation. Dosage is moderate at 8 g/l, enhancing its balance and precision. La Grande Année reflects the exceptional quality of the vineyards and the meticulous attention to detail that Bollinger applies in both vineyard and cellar.

Meet the Producer

Bollinger, based in Aÿ, Champagne, has built a reputation for producing full-bodied, complex champagnes with outstanding ageing potential. Known for its mastery of oak fermentation and extended lees ageing, the house focuses on expression, elegance, and consistency across its prestigious cuvées.

Production

The La Grande Année cuvée is a blend of 11 crus, with small, compact berries and high natural acidity contributing to its structure and longevity. Fermentation occurs entirely in oak barrels, followed by extended maturation under natural cork. The resulting Champagne combines richness, complexity, and aromatic precision, characteristic of Bollinger’s high-end vintages.

Tasting Notes

The wine displays yellow-gold reflections, signalling maturity and the influence of oak vinification. The nose is fragrant and layered, revealing stone fruits such as Pomme Gris, plum, and Mirabelle plum, complemented by blackberry, blackcurrant, cherry, and raspberry. Subtle almond, honey, vanilla, and delicate woody notes add complexity. On the palate, the wine is generous and textured, with Mirabelle plum jam-like richness, balanced by chocolate and citrus notes, a touch of schist minerality, and a long, elegant finish. Additional aromas of toast, lemon zest, Bosc pear, mango, and papaya contribute to a vibrant and expressive profile.

Food Match

Best served between 8 and 10°C, La Grande Année is a gastronomic Champagne suited to rich and complex dishes. It pairs beautifully with mushrooms, nuts, poultry, meat dishes, red berries, citrus peel, and other intricate flavours, making it ideal for fine dining or celebratory occasions.

Grape

Pinot Noir 60%, Chardonnay 40%