Bollinger is back
After the…, ahem, controversial release strategy for 2008 La Grande Annee, Bollinger was taking no chances with the sequel vintage (there is no LGA in 2009 or 2010, although there has been some 2011 as the James Bond-themed 007 Limited Edition). Yesterday, Guy de Rivoire, Commercial Director, introduced the 2012 to a St. John Smithfield restaurant packed full of merchants big and small.
Guy told us that Bollinger sees it as the first of the new breed of warmer vintage Grande Annees - the winter was very mild but it was an August heatwave that transformed the quality. Frost in April reduced the yield: the crop averaged just 8,600 kg per hectare, little more than half the volume in 2004. It is a blend of 65% Pinot Noir and 35% Chardonnay from 21 different crus, with Ay and Verzenay providing the backbone. The whole production was disgorged in May last year.
What's it like? Well, it's certainly a different beast to the 2008. It's riper and more open, with a creamy mousse and layers of toasty complexity but already more than a hint of that signature Bollinger undergrowth character. Despite the riper style, the wine has good acidity and should age well. Drink over the next 10-15 years. /AR
Offered subject to remaining unsold; available under bond imminently and there will be a small amount of gift-boxed stock in the shop tomorrow
