Like a prima ballerina, this is all about grace married to precision and fine definition. An expressive core of pureed raspberry, poached apricot, blood orange gelée and toast point is framed by well-honed acidity. A subtle, fragrant thread of fresh thyme, oyster shell, and ground ginger and cinnamon winds through and lingers on the plush, mouthwatering finish. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Disgorged May 2025. Drink now through 2045.
97 points, Alison Napjus, Wine Spectator (Nov 2026)
Bollinger’s 2018 La Grande Année is quite pretty and delicate. Floral and citrus notes are nicely lifted in a Grande Année that offers notable sensuality and grace. Hints of orchard fruit, chamomile, mint and chalk build through the mid-palate and into the taut, chiseled finish. There’s plenty of energy and focus. More importantly, this is a fine effort in a year marked by high yields in Champagne. I would give this a few years in the cellar. The 2018 is 66% Pinot Noir and 34% Chardonnay from 19 villages, 73% Grand Cru and 37% Premier Cru. The core villages are Aÿ, Verzenay and Mareuil for Pinot Noir and Avize, Chouilly and Cuis for the Chardonnay. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged: March 2025
96 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (May 2026)
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