The Friday Fizz: BOLLINGER Special Cuvee Rose, Champagne, NV
The Person: Gilles Descôtes is Bollinger’s Cellar Master
The Place: The Bollinger cellars and estate vineyards in Champagne
The Story:
Bollinger is a house maybe better known in the UK than in the US, at least outside the wine trade. As American Champagne drinkers turn on to richer styles, Bolliner is more and more popular, even at higher price points than many of its competitors.
BOLLINGER Special Cuvee Rose, Champagne, NV ($94.99)
A 12% alcohol blend of 62% Pinot Noir, 24% Chardonnay, 14% Pinot Meunier (finished with 6% red still Pinot Noir and about 30% of reserve wines) made in a brut-style with a light 7-8% residual sugar dosage. Primary fermentation was in a mix of oak barrels and small stainless steel tanks. Bottle aged on the lees for 36 months. Medium-salmon in color and fully Sparkling; dry, medium-bodied with freshly-balanced acidity and light (but present) phenolics. Delicious, supple, ripe. Lovely red fruit and enough citrus with a great richer feel in the mouth. Perfect combination of fruit, toast, mineral-earth, and richness. Satisfying. Great train wine (on the TGV from Champagne to Bordeaux). BearScore: 93+.
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