Bollinger R.D. 2007 1.5L Magnum

Bollinger R.D. is an extraordinary wine that stands apart from the rest. It undergoes a unique aging process on the lees for an extended period before being hand-disgorged. The result is a powerful and rare vintage that showcases a beautiful contrast between an exceptional freshness on the palate, enhanced by the extra-brut dosage, and the aromatic intensity of the greatest vintages. In the case of the 2007 vintage, Bollinger R.D. takes a nostalgic turn, returning to its roots and historic label. The original material and legendary font from the 1952 vintage have been restored, proudly displaying the date of disgorging. This attention to detail and authenticity is a true rediscovery. The blend of the 2007 vintage consists of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay, featuring an impressive 91% Grands Crus and 9% Premiers Crus. A total of 14 crus are carefully incorporated into the blending process. Fermentation takes place entirely in oak barrels, adding depth and complexity to the wine. Bollinger R.D. is released for sale just a few months after disgorgement, with an extremely low dosage known as "extra brut" at only 3 grams per litre. This recent disgorgement ensures that the wine maintains its remarkable freshness.

Bollinger R.D. 2007 1.5L Magnum offers intense shimmers of gold, captivating the eye. On the nose, it reveals a complex profile with enticing aromas of honey and brioche. These initial notes are followed by a delightful array of spices, including ginger, cumin, caraway and more. As the wine evolves, it unveils additional layers of flavour, with hints of mirabelle plum, dried apricot and fresh hazelnut. Upon tasting, Bollinger R.D. 2007 1.5L  presents a lively and clean opening, showcasing notes of white plum, walnut and aniseed. Its freshness is truly remarkable, creating a beautiful tension on the palate. To fully appreciate the wine's unique style, it is recommended to serve Bollinger R.D. at a temperature of 8°C, allowing its aromas to evolve throughout the tasting experience. There are two distinct experiences when enjoying Bollinger R.D. The first involves tasting the wine shortly after disgorgement, offering a specific aromatic range with complex fruity notes. Alternatively, one can choose to cellar Bollinger R.D. for several more years, allowing it to mature and reveal the depth of aromas typically found in the finest vintages.

Bollinger’s 2007 R.D. is superb, but it is also a wine that reflects the nature of a unique and challenging growing season. In most vintages the R.D. is marked by the distinct creaminess and breadth of Aÿ Pinot Noir. Two thousand seven, though, was a difficult year marked by very dry weather, rain at the end of the growing season and an early harvest in August, something that was not as common as it has become. Selection was essential. For the 2007, the blend is composed of just 14 villages compared to the more typical 18-25. Verzenay is the main Pinot component while Cramant plays the leading role in the Chardonnays. For these reasons, the 2007 is an R.D. driven by more focus, energy and tension than readers are used to seeing. Lemon confit, dried flowers, sage, mint, crushed rocks, almond and ginger are some of the aromas and flavors that give the 2007 its complex, multi-faceted personality. The 2007 can be enjoyed now, but I would prefer to cellar it for a few years. It will age effortlessly for decades as it moves through the various phases of its life. I was reminded of the way Champagne can magically traverse time by magical bottles of the 1976 R.D. and 1996 Vieilles Vignes Françaises I tasted recently. The blend is 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay, 91% Grand Cru fruit and the rest Premier Cru. Bollinger fans will notice the return of the original label, with the disgorgement date clearly visible, a tribute to Madame Bollinger, who was a pioneer in so many ways. - Antonio Galloni Vinous, 97 Points.