Wine Advisor
Bollinger, Francaises Blanc de Noirs Vieilles Vignes 2004
View analysis
Description
Champagne Bollinger is a renowned winery located in the Champagne region of France. Established in 1829, it is known for producing high-quality Champagne using traditional methods. Francaises Blanc de Noirs Vieilles Vignes is a prestigious Champagne made exclusively from old vine Pinot Noir grapes sourced from premier vineyards in France. This rare and limited cuvée showcases the depth and complexity that comes from the mature vines, offering a rich and full-bodied expression of Blanc de Noirs. With aromas of red fruits, toasted nuts, and a hint of spice, this Champagne exudes elegance and sophistication. The fine bubbles and long, lingering finish add to its luxurious character, making Francaises Blanc de Noirs Vieilles Vignes a sought-after choice for those who appreciate the finest Champagne.
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni
We start with a side-by-side comparison of Bollinger’s 2002 and 2004 Vieilles Vignes Françaises, one of my favorite Champagnes. The 2002 is spectacular, as it always is. Rich, warm and resonant, the 2002 covers the palate with seemingly endless layers of burnished, honeyed fruit and the most finessed, subtle mousse imaginable. I don’t see the 2002 making old bones, but it is flat-out great tonight. The 2004, on the other hand, is disappointing. More advanced in its flavors and with quite a bit less structure than the 2002, the 2004 is already maturing and needs to be enjoyed sooner rather than later.
About the Producer
Established in the commune of Aÿ-Champagne in 1829, the House of Bollinger is home to an impressive legacy of winemaking excellence, achieved through the polished precision of a finely tuned timepiece. Today, the Bollinger Champagne House reigns over 440 acres dedicated to the vine in the Champagne region of northern France, of which an impressive 85% is classified Grand Cru or Premier Cru. The vineyards are spread out over 7 main communes. Pinot Noir is planted in Ay (the headquarters of the House), as well as Avenay, Verzenay, Louvois and Tauxieres. Meanwhile, the House’s Chardonnay comes from Cuis, while Pinot Meunier is planted in Champvoisy. A complex and powerful grape, Pinot Noir represents 60% of the total plantings, which corresponds to the exact proportion of this grape variety in the blend of the House’s signature Special Cuvee. The two crown gems of the House are its twin plots, the Clos Saint-Jacques and Chaudes Terres, where ungrafted pre-phylloxera vines are tended to by hand, their fruit used to produce the very exclusive and rare Bollinger Vieilles Vignes Francaises cuvee.
