Champagne Bollinger, R.D. Extra Brut, Ay Grand Cru, Vallée de la Marne 2008

An old vintage, with a very low dosage, that has been disgorged just prior to release: R.D. is a wine that has always been ahead of its time and embodies Madame Bollinger’s visionary spirit. The combination of the long wait during the aging process and the immediacy of disgorgement enables the harmonious contrast between the different temporalities of R.D.

The 2008 vintage is characterised by its remarkable precision and opulence. The assembly of this 2008 vintage is 71% Pinot Noir and 29% Chardonnay. A total of 18 crus can be find in the blending, mostly Aÿ and Verzenay for Pinot Noir and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger and Cramant for Chardonnay. The fermentation is entirely in oak barrels.

On the nose, enticing aromas of marzipan, stewed apricots, honey and breadcrumbs accompany fresh notes of bergamot. On the palate, a rich, precise mousse. Citrus notes are followed by flavours of Mirabelle plums and vine peaches. A very vivaciours wine which unfolds to reveal exceptional complexity. Notes of fresh hazelnuts and salinity combine to create an intense, everlasting finish.

Bollinger R.D. is sold just a few months after being disgorged, with a very low dosage known as “extra brut”, at just 3 grams per liter. The recent disgorgement guarantees the remarkable freshness of the wine.

Today, Bollinger R.D. 2008 is lively and exceptionally complex, taking us on a journey outside time. Hazelnuts, with all their freshness and generosity, are the perfect ingredient to echo a wine of such splendour.