'RD' Champagne AOC Bollinger 2002 Boxed

The Champagne Extra Brut 'RD' of the Maison Bollinger is a truly particular champagne which, by company choice, is produced only in the best vintages, that is the true meaning of the concept of Millesimato or Millesimato. This sparkling wine is based on Pinot Noir grapes, coming from Aÿ, Verzenay and Bouzy and Chardonnay grapes, grown in Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger and Cruis. We are talking about the most significant crus of the whole area. The acronym 'RD' on the label means 'Récemment Degorgé', meaning that disgorgement has recently taken place, which is the real "date of birth" of the sparkling wine, beyond the Millesimo (harvest year). The vinification follows a precise ritual which is put in writing by the company and which cannot be deviated from. The wine ferments in wooden barrels self-produced by the maison then, according to the Champenoise method, rests on the lees for a very long time, at least 96 months (8 years), but can reach 15 years (!), depending on the vintage. Champagne Extra Brut 'RD' was created in 1967 by Madame Bollinger, whose intent was to create a product that was as qualitative as possible and therefore identifying the Maison, a true excellence. At the tasting we find great structure and strength. Great freshness and acidity, good alcohol and evolution, of course. And then again softness, creaminess, lots of finesse, elegance, ripe notes, very fine bubbles and lots and lots of minerality. The feeling of being in front of a great wine is absolutely strong. But not only for the objective aspects: the price and the commercial resonance it has accumulated over many years of history. The sensation is given by the perfect harmony that this Champagne transmits, where every sensation, every component is in its place, after years and years of anxious waiting. Fantastic!