drink-now2004 Champagne Bollinger, R.D., Extra Brut

The very concept of Bollinger’s R.D. is inspired in part by the old Champenoise custom of especially disgorging a bottle from the cellar to mark a special occasion. Call me an old romantic but that seems to me a tradition that is well worth continuing, especially with the 26th R.D. – the alluring 2004. Its full on Bolly on the nose; broad opulent and fleshy. A sunny, generous character underlines the fruit which range from mirabelle plum, to citrus zest to a touch of redcurrant from the 66% pinot noir. Now here comes the magic; nougat, roasted hazelnuts, flaky pastry all manner of doughy, bready deliciousness that only comes from some 12 years developing sur lie. It’s rich but finely balanced with fantastic concentration on the palate, a Champagne to treat like fine Burgundy now and over the next decade.
Jared Ehret, Private Account Manager