Tasting Notes
Bollinger La Grande Annee 2014
Bollinger La Grande Annee is the ultimate expression of the Bollinger house style, rich and full - one of the worlds great Champagnes. Still family owned, this is a champagne house of world renown. In exceptional years (perhaps 4 times a decade) they produce La Grande Annee, their Prestige Cuvee. 75% of the fruit is from Grand Cru sites, the remaining 25% from the finest Premier Cru, first fermentation is in 100% old oak barrels, aged for 5 years on its lees, no expense is spared!
Blend of the 2014 vintage: 61% Pinot Noir, 39% Chardonnay. 19 crus : Mainly Aÿ and Verzenay for the Pinot Noir, Chouilly and Oiry for the Chardonnay.
At Bollinger, only very high quality harvests become a vintage : the 2014 vintage gave rise to a wine that is simultaneously structured, rich and complex, in terms of both its minerality and exceptional intensity.
Maturation: Sealed with a natural cork and cellar aged for more than twice the time required by the appellation.
Dosage: Moderate, 8 grams per litre.
To the eye: Tinted with golden glints that reflect the wine’s maturity and Bollinger vinification techniques.
To the nose: A precise and fruity nose with a slight scent of sea-air. Aromas of cherry and lemon mingle with quince and bergamot. Then notes of hazelnut and almond, peach and mirabelle plum complete this wine’s range of aromas.
On the palate: The initial sensation is a fine and intense effervescence, followed by a wonderful vinosity, and then balanced with delicate acidity. Its very fine texture and sea-air finish bring excellent length on the palate, accompanied by a delicate minerality and the complex flavours of orchard fruit and citrus. This wine unfurls gradually, revealing its full potential and intensity.