Champagne is synonymous with celebration and luxury, and among the prestigious names in the world of bubbly, Bollinger stands out as a symbol of timeless elegance. Established in 1829, Bollinger has a rich history and a commitment to producing exceptional champagne. Here are five interesting facts that make Bollinger a fascinating and celebrated choice among champagne lovers.
Champagne Bollinger: A Royal Seal of Approval
First of all, Bollinger is a champagne producer that has earned the prestigious Royal Warrant, a mark of recognition granted to those who have supplied goods or services to the royal household. In 1884, Queen Victoria bestowed this honor upon Bollinger, and the champagne house has maintained this esteemed endorsement ever since. This royal connection highlights the quality of Bollinger champagne while adding a regal touch to the brand’s heritage.
The Pinot Noir Dominance in Bollinger Champagne
Champagne Bollinger is renowned for its distinctive style, characterized by its emphasis on the Pinot Noir grape variety. Unlike many other champagne houses that rely heavily on Chardonnay, it sources a significant portion of its grapes from premier and grand cru vineyards by focusing predominantly on Pinot Noir. This great preference for a red grape variety contributes to the robustness, structure and longevity of Bollinger champagnes, setting them apart in terms of flavor profile.
The Aging in Magnum Bottles
Bollinger takes an unconventional approach to aging its Champagne by maturing the wine in magnum bottles. This unique technique, known as magnum aging, allows the wine to develop a greater complexity and finesse over time. The larger size of the bottle, with its lower surface-area-to-volume ratio, slows down the aging process, resulting in a more harmonious and nuanced Champagne. This exceptional art of craftsmanship is a testament to Champagne Bollinger’s dedication to producing exceptional wines.
Bollinger Special Cuvées
RD and Vieilles Vignes Françaises Bollinger offers wine enthusiasts a glimpse into its commitment to excellence through special cuvées that showcase the artistry and precision of its winemaking. The Bollinger RD (Récemment Dégorgé or Recently Disgorged) is a vintage Champagne that undergoes extended less aging. It has a unique and rich taste profile. Another rare gem is the Vieilles Vignes Françaises, crafted from ungrafted, pre-phylloxera vines, making it an exceptionally limited and sought-after expression of Bollinger’s winemaking prowess.
Bollinger: James Bond’s Champagne
Bollinger has made a lasting mark on popular culture as the preferred champagne of the fictional British secret agent James Bond. Starting with the 1973 film “Live and Let Die,” the prestigious house has been featured in numerous Bond movies, becoming synonymous with the sophistication and refinement of the iconic character. The association with 007 has undoubtedly contributed to Champagne Bollinger’s allure and global recognition.
The Legacy of Bollinger: A Beacon of Excellence
In addition to its storied history and iconic associations, Bollinger continues to be a beacon of excellence in the world of champagne. The meticulous craftsmanship, from the vineyards to the cellar, reflects a commitment to quality that has endured for nearly two centuries. Bollinger’s dedication to innovation, as seen in their magnum aging technique and special cuvées, ensures that each bottle tells a story of refinement and distinction.