Bollinger Vieilles Vignes Françaises 2009

In the early 20th century, the vines of Champagne were destroyed by phylloxera. In order to fight the devastating insect, all vines in Champagne had to be replanted using American rootstock. Everything, except two Bollinger plots in Aÿ classified as Grand cru which remained untouched: Chaudes Terres and Clos St Jacques. To this day, these two plots are grown the traditional way, following the ‘provignage’ method, worked by hand and even sometimes with the help of a horse. Bollinger Vieilles Vignes Françaises is a symbol of a bygone era: an extraordinary and moving legacy.

A deep golden colour in the glass. The nose is complex, lively and smooth. Intense aromas of quince jelly, mirabelle plum and dry fruits give way to subtle notes of mocha and toasted bread. A very wide aromatic spectrum is expressed across the palate in a delectable, rich and precise palate. It has remarkable length, marked by a saline finish.

Vieilles Vignes Françaises 2009 can be paired with the finest dishes, but can also help create a special occasion on its own; wine connoisseurs will share it thoughtfully, enjoying the opportunity to try its rare unmatched flavours. To fully appreciate its unique style, bouquet and aromas, it is best to serve Vieilles Vignes Françaises 2009 between 10 and 12°C. You can enjoy Vieilles Vignes Françaises 2009 right away, or choose to age it further in your cellar.  

Bollinger’s 2009 Vieilles Vignes Françaises is tightly wound and reserved, which is quite surprising given the warm, dry weather of the vintage. That won’t be a problem in time, of course, but readers should plan on being patient. With a few hours of air, apricot, plum, spice, dried cherry and candied orange peel start to appear, but the 2009 remains rather taut. In some years, VVF can be quite opulent, 2002 and 2010 come to mind. The 2009, on the other hand is much more vibrant. I wouldn’t plan on opening a bottle anytime soon. VVF remains one of the most compelling wines – still or sparkling – in the world. It emerges from ungrafted Pinot Noir vines in Aÿ’s Chaudes Terres and Clos St. Jacques lieu-dits and is vinified and aged in barrel. Dosage is 4 grams per liter. - Antonio Gallon, Vinous (Originally published in August 2020), 96 Points

The Finer Details
Style - Champagne
Varietal - Pinot Noir Grand cru (Blanc de Noirs)
Country - France
Region - Champagne
Vintage - 2009
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 12%