Wine type: champagne - Bollinger Grand Année
Vintage and alcohol content: 2012 - 12°
Region: Aÿ, Avenay, Tauxières, Louvois et Verzenay. France.
Grape/blend: 70% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay 14 crus. (91% Grands crus and 9% Premier crus).
Type soil: the soil is poor and rocky, the temperature is ideal in summer (partly due to the micro-climate created by the local wind, the Ora del Garda): vines here still co-exist alongside olive groves. The valley is more open here and the excellent sun exposure allows the grapes to ripen to perfection.
Colour: the delicate colour and golden hues are a sign of the wine’s maturity and Bollinger’s wine-making methods.
Aroma: a first impression of fresh almonds, then yellow-flesh fruit aromas evoking peach and mango; toasted, roasted notes accompanied with dried citrus and pink grapefruit.
Tasting notes: a lovely aromatic fullness with honey flavours and a smooth chalky texture; candied lemon notes and a delicious bitterness, a wonderfully refreshing finish.
Serving suggestions: foie gras, fresh or pan-fried. Grilled fish, with or without sauce, lobster. Roast lamb or veal. Parmesan or Comté.