La Grande Année is Champagne Bollinger’s prestigious cuvée, created only in exceptional years when harvest conditions are near-perfect. The 1979 vintage is a stunning example, crafted from a blend of primarily Pinot Noir (60%) and Chardonnay (40%) sourced from the finest grand cru vineyards. This Champagne showcases the house`s signature style, with an emphasis on the bold, structured character of Pinot Noir.
After an extended ageing period, the wine reveals an intricate bouquet of dried fruits, toasted nuts, and subtle hints of spice, alongside the classic Bollinger yeast-driven richness. On the palate, the wine is complex, with layers of honeyed fruit, marzipan, and a whisper of earthiness. The fresh acidity provides balance and clarity, while a long, elegant finish leaves a lasting impression.
Synonymous with sophistication and quality, Champagne Bollinger was awarded the Royal Warrant as Official Purveyor of Champagne to Queen Victoria in 1884. From special cuvées and Rosé Champagnes, to rarely seen vintages, luxurious large formats and Recently Disgorged styles, this is a wonderful House to discover. Bollinger wines even have a close association with James Bond - and rare limited editions have been released in celebration of the films from Moonraker to No Time To Die.
The Bollinger vineyard covers 179 hectares, with 85% of these Grand and Premier Cru. One of the last family-run Champagne houses in the region, Bollinger is located in the village of Aÿ, near Épernay. A number of practices are key to the Bollinger approach: the majority of grapes used in the wines have to come from the Maison's own vineyards; Pinot Noir must play a dominant role in the blend; the role of micro-oxygenation from barrel fermentation; and long periods of bottle aging (two to three times longer than required).
