Ratings
Robert Parker 98 · James Suckling 99 · Wine Spectator 97 · Decanter 97 · Jancis Robinson 18 · Vinous 96 · The Wine Independent 98
Identity
| Producer | Bollinger |
| Vol | 0.75 |
| Classification | Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards |
| Grapes | 71% Pinot Noir, 29% Chardonnay |
| Color | white |
| Sweetness | Extra Brut |
Tasting
| Color Desc | Bright straw-yellow hue, surprisingly light in color but will deepen with age. |
| Aroma | Toasted almond, preserved Meyer lemon, brothy salinity, fresh fruit, Granny Smith apple, pomelo, almond paste, white sandwich bread, oyster shell, hazelnut cream, Domori chocolate, madeleine cookies, almond paste, wood sauna, gunpowder, grilled beef, duck liver, honeysuckle, mushroom cream, honey, nougat, baked apples, toasted brioche, citrus fruit, minerality, baking spices, pie crust. |
| Palate | Powerful and vinous with depth and textural intensity, phenolic tannin-driven grip from Pinot Noir, vibrant fresh acidity, creamy mousse, saline intensity, chalky finish, silky and lithe texture, and a long, mouthwatering finish. |
| Finish | Long-lasting finish with electric mineral energy, salinity, honeyed notes, and a chalky, citrus peel aftertaste that lingers for days. |
| Food Pairing | Pairs well with seafood, oysters, grilled fish, poultry, duck liver, and fine cheeses. |
| Serving Temp | 8 |
| Aging Potential | Drink from 2026 to 2056, excellent aging potential for decades. |
| Serving Glassware | Flute or tulip-shaped champagne glass |
Profile
Acidity (1-5)
HIGHER THAN AVERAGE
Body (1-5)
AVERAGE
Aroma (1-5)
HIGH
Minerality (1-5)
LOW
Enology
| ABV % | 12.5 |
| Sugar (g/l) | 3.00 |
| Aging Process | Aged on lees for at least 9 years, including fermentation in old oak barrels (205, 225, and 400 liters) and reserve wines aged in magnums with cork stoppers for 5 to 12 years. |
| Fermentation | Fermentation occurs in old oak barrels and temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks depending on the vintage quality. |
Terroir
| Soil | Soils typical of Champagne Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards including chalky soils |
| Harvest Type | manual |
| Harvest Desc | Grapes are hand-harvested from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards, including Aÿ, Verzenay, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, and Cramant. |
Interesting facts
| Bollinger R.D. 2008 is a prestigious Champagne with a long lees aging of at least 9 years, made only in exceptional vintages. It is known for its complexity, richness, and remarkable aging potential. The 2008 vintage is highly regarded for its balanced weather and excellent harvest. The wine was launched with fanfare in the UK, including a bagpipe performance honoring Lily Bollinger's Scottish heritage. |
Logistics
| Cork | natural cork |