On an evening devoted to “craftsmanship, expertise, and transmission,” Champagne Bollinger hosted the unveiling of its latest Vintage cuvées in Aÿ during March, marking the launch of the 2018 Grande Année. This was not only a product reveal but also a celebration of the newly completed cellar, part of Bollinger’s extensive plan leading to its bicentenary in 2029.
In 2022, Champagne Bollinger introduced a seven-year strategy that outlines developments to ensure long-term growth and sustainability as the house approaches its 200th anniversary. This plan includes a state-of-the-art cellar, which significantly enhances their oak-aging capacity, alongside a new hotel and dining facilities. Chairman Étienne Bizot emphasized the importance of evolving from a customer-closed image to welcoming guests directly to Aÿ, reflecting their commitment to heritage and quality since the family’s leadership began in 1829.
The new cellar is strategically positioned to increase the current capacity of 4,000 barrels to between 5,000 and 5,500. Managing Director Charles-Armand de Belenet highlighted the company’s investments in vineyard certifications and oak utilization as crucial steps toward future-proofing. With the cellarmaster Gilles Descôtes passing away, the company confirmed they are in the process of selecting a successor.
The evening began with a cellar tour demonstrating the meticulous hand-riddling process that each bottle of La Grande Année undergoes, followed by tastings of new base wines that formed part of the 2018 blend. The crowd sampled a Chardonnay from Cuis and two distinct Pinot Noirs from Aÿ and Verzenay, each contributing unique qualities to the final blend and showcasing Bollinger’s dedication to crafting exceptional wines.
Bérangère Fierfort-Caqué, an enologist, recounted the climatic challenges faced during the 2018 vintage, which began with a rainy winter and transitioned into a hot summer, yielding vibrant, fruit-forward wines. The event concluded with performances from a dance troupe and a thoughtfully curated dinner prepared by notable chefs, César and Léo Troisgros, who presented dishes that harmonized beautifully with the wines.
The 2018 Bollinger La Grande Année displayed a mouth-filling juiciness and freshness, appealing to both new consumers and aficionados alike, with scores of 96 points. The Rosé version offered a different vibrancy with bright fruit flavors, maintaining its elegance and depth.
For further exploration of Bollinger wines and more details on their innovative practices, visit their official pages.