The 2014 Bollinger Grande Annee is a Champagne Blend that hails from the prestigious Champagne region of France. This white wine is a true expression of the unique terroir and craftsmanship that Bollinger is known for. With a vibrant golden color and a delicate effervescence, it is a visual delight.
On the nose, the 2014 Bollinger Grande Annee offers a captivating bouquet of lemon, herbs, red berries, and gooseberries. These fresh and distinctive notes are complemented by a splendid calcareous frame, adding depth and complexity to the aroma profile. It is a wine that immediately captivates the senses and invites further exploration.
The palate of this vintage Champagne is equally impressive. Mineral, tense, and elegant, it showcases a dense structure and a perfectly balanced texture. The fine bubbles dance on the tongue, creating a luxurious and indulgent mouthfeel. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a lasting impression.
According to Denis Bunner, assistant cellarmaster at Bollinger, the 2014 vintage is a vintage of contrasts. It experienced one of the hottest Junes in the last 50 years, followed by a very cool August, resulting in slow ripening. The grapes were harvested from 15 September for two weeks, making it one of Bollinger's shortest harvests. The careful management of ripeness has allowed this wine to achieve the best possible sorting window.
The 2014 Bollinger Grande Annee is a blend of 61% Pinot Noir and 39% Chardonnay, sourced from 19 villages, all grands and premiers crus. It was aged for six months in small barrels, adding further complexity and nuance to the final product. The dosage of 8 g/L provides a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
This extraordinary Champagne has received high praise from critics. Decanter awarded it a score of 94, noting its fresh and distinctive notes, mineral palate, and lingering finish. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave it a score of 95, describing it as medium to full-bodied, pillowy, and vinous with a long, chalky finish. Vinous awarded it a score of 98, praising its sizzling energy, tension, and linear intensity. Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast both gave it a score of 97, highlighting its racy acidity, rich panoply of flavors, and hallmark Bollinger richness. Jeb Dunnuck also awarded it a score of 97, noting its finesse, cool mineral tension, and floral notes.
Overall, the 2014 Bollinger Grande Annee is a truly exceptional Champagne that showcases the mastery of the Bollinger house. With its complexity, elegance, and impressive aging potential, it is a wine that will delight Champagne enthusiasts for many years to come.