Bollinger PN VZ 16 Base Vintage 2016

Straw coloured with a very vibrant fine mousse. Full on the nose with lots of obviously Pinot aromas. Red fruits, especially strawberry. Shortbread biscuits. Hazelnuts. A hint of toffee, caramel and an attractive earthiness. Unmistakably Bollinger in richness and structure. On the palate the striking and slightly surprising impact is the freshness and linear mouthfeel which seems in contrast to the nose – this is a classic characteristic of the village of Verzenay; and after a few minutes in the glass the wine fills out considerably revealing a generous, rounded texture, luxuriant Pinot Noir style and ripe fruits of peach, apricot and pear. Bold, rich and opulent Bollinger with plenty of potential for ageing.

The NV Blanc de Noirs PN VZ16 Brut is made from 100% Pinot Noir, mainly from Verzenay and based around the 2016 vintage, with the oldest wine in the blend being from 2006. It was disgorged in January 2021 and has 6 g/L dosage. Pale lemon colored with a twinkle of gold, it offers up vibrant notes of apple pie, honeycomb, orange blossoms, and lemon meringue pie with gentle wafts of praline, raspberry leaves, and creme caramel. The palate is packed with energetic citrus and apple layers with a fine mousse and lively backbone, finishing long and perfumed.

Very deep and youthful nose with a cornucopia of candied citrus and red berries, as well as a touch of herb. Stunning depth of chalky character and fantastic mineral freshness make this really stand out. Dramatic, yet so elegant at the very long finish. 100% pinot noir, of which 50% is from Verzenay and that gives it it’s name. The reserve wines are all Verzenays from 2006, 2009 and 2015. Disgorged January 2021. Drink or hold.