Bollinger Vieilles Vignes Francaises 2016

The recently released 2016 Blanc de Noirs Vieilles Vignes Françaises—harvested on September 18th at a relatively modest 10.2% potential alcohol—has turned out beautifully. It unites the richness of Pinot Noir and the concentration of old vines with the freshness imparted by the growing season and recent disgorgement. This balance serves to temper some of the exuberance that VVF can display in warmer vintages. Disgorged in February 2025 with a dosage of four grams per liter, the wine unfurls from the glass with a deep bouquet of orange zest, crisp pear and peach, mingling with notes of freshly baked bread, nuts and spices. On the palate, it is medium- to full-bodied, expansive and multidimensional, with tangy acidity and a pillowy mousse. Generous and intense yet impeccably harmonious, it culminates in a long, resonant finish. Those fortunate enough to secure one or two of the mere 1,000 bottles produced will likely face a dilemma: when to open it. Promising a superb drinking experience, it is likely to show at its full generosity between 17 and 25 years after the vintage. Drink: 2026-2041

Extremely mellow, rich nose – like essence of Pinot Noir! Presumably thanks to the plant material, vine age and length of tirage. And one can see the rigour of the oak influence. Dry, lingering finish. A food wine, or wine to meditate over. A true thrill to experience. So neat and contained! A wine that takes you on a journey as you taste through from the rich start to the dry finish. My suggested drinking window is a guess as I haven't tasted this wine with much bottle age. Drink: 2025-2040