Critic tasting note: (2002 vintage) “From the cellar. In 1967, Bollinger released R.D. 1952, the first of the Recently Disgorged champagnes, and the first labels to show the disgorge date. Since that time, and up to today, a portion of La Grande Année has been kept in the cellars for a later disgorge, after up to 20 years on the lees. Though showing obvious age, with tertiary autolytics, plus ample maillard reaction caramelization, the 2002 RD has worn very, very well. It’s 60/40 pinot noir / chardonnay was sourced from 23 Crus (all GC or 1er Cru), and was disgorged with 3-4 g/L. This was a pristine bottle, showing no oxidation, and great purity, opening with subtle burnished lemon curd, patisserie, apricot fuzz, and yellow plum on the nose before carrying into cushy meringue and roasted hazelnut on the deep palate. Though the mousse is gentle, the driving acidity and chalky buzz underneath is driving and persistent, carrying this at least half a minute on the palate after the last drop finishes. A stunner, still now, and with time yet ahead.
2002 Bollinger R.D. Extra Brut, Champagne, France
£170.00
From an impeccable private cellar whose owner wishes to sell a few wines and we are delighted to list them for him. Fabulous champagne, 95’s and 96’s from all the critics, we just have the 3 bottles, if you need more than one!!
