Bollinger Special Cuvée NV

Winery Background and History

Champagne Bollinger, founded in 1829 in Aÿ, is one of the few remaining family-owned and independent Champagne houses. Renowned for its Pinot Noir-driven style and commitment to craftsmanship, Bollinger still ages reserve wines in magnums under cork and ferments a significant proportion of its wines in oak barrels. Special Cuvée is the flagship of the house, embodying its tradition of richness, depth, and structure in a non-vintage blend first named “Special Cuvée” in 1911.

Producer and Wine Maker

The wine is crafted by Bollinger’s cellar master and blending team, who select from multiple crus and integrate reserve magnums aged 5–15 years. The philosophy emphasizes balance between power and elegance, with 30 % vinified in old oak barrels and extensive use of reserve wines to ensure consistency and depth across releases.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Over 85 % of the grapes used come from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards, primarily in the Montagne de Reims and Vallée de la Marne. Pinot Noir dominates, bringing structure and body, while Chardonnay contributes finesse and Meunier adds fruitiness. The cool continental Champagne climate with chalky soils provides freshness and minerality essential to the blend.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The blend includes roughly 60% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay, and 15% Meunier. About 30% of the base wines are fermented in old oak barrels. Reserve wines (around 50%)—kept in magnums under cork for up to 15 years—add layers of maturity. After blending, the cuvée ages on its lees for 30–36 months, with dosage set at ~7–8 g/L, classifying it as Brut.

Tasting notes

Golden in color with a fine, persistent mousse. Aromas of ripe apple, pear, brioche, roasted nuts, and subtle spice. The palate is full and complex, with flavors of stone fruit, citrus, honey, and toasted bread balanced by a saline minerality. Creamy texture and lively acidity lead into a long, elegant finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with shellfish (lobster, scallops, crab), sushi, roast chicken, white meats with mushroom sauces, and aged cheeses. Its richness allows it to complement both refined seafood dishes and more savory, earthy fare.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 8–10 °C in a tulip-shaped Champagne glass to showcase both mousse and aromatic depth. No decanting is required; allow it to open briefly in the glass.

Storage and Aging Potential

Though designed for immediate enjoyment, Special Cuvée can age gracefully for 8–12 years under proper cellaring (12–14 °C, dark, humid), developing additional notes of hazelnut, honey, and brioche.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

60% Pinot Noir

25% Chardonnay

15% Meunier

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12%

Scores

• Tyson Stelzer: 96

• Wine Spectator: 93

• James Suckling: 93

• Jeb Dunnuck: 93

• Burghound (Allen Meadows): 93