Viniou Reviews
Bollinger Special Cuvée is an iconic non-vintage Champagne, crafted predominantly from Pinot Noir grapes, inspired by the “blanc de noirs” tradition, with reserve wines added to ensure exceptional complexity and consistency. The base wine blends several vintages, a hallmark of the maison’s rigorous selection and blending expertise. Fermented and aged mostly in oak barrels using the méthode traditionnelle, Special Cuvée spends at least three years on lees before disgorgement, developing a rich, layered structure with notes of baked apple, brioche, and dried fruits sitting atop a backbone of racy acidity and fine, persistent bubbles.
Champagne as a region is defined by its cool, northern climate, chalky soils, and rolling hills—conditions perfect for producing sparkling wines with both finesse and structure. The distinct terroir of Champagne, featuring the chalk, marl, and limestone subsoil, offers ideal drainage and imparts a delicate mineral complexity to the wines. The region’s winemaking history stretches back centuries, with houses like Bollinger distinguished by their unwavering commitment to quality and a house style favouring depth and character, achieved by prioritising Pinot Noir in their blends and extended maturation in cellars.
This Champagne’s full-bodied and elegant profile pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Serve it alongside classic regional pairings such as oysters, langoustines, or caviar, where its tension and vibrancy cut through the richness of the seafood. It also stands up admirably to poultry dishes like roast chicken with morel sauce, mushroom risotto, or even aged Comté cheese, where its body and matured complexity shine.
For the best drinking experience, serve Bollinger Special Cuvée chilled but not overly cold, ideally between 8-10°C. Allow the Champagne a few minutes in the glass to open up and reveal its depth and aromatic nuances. Choose tulip-shaped glasses rather than flutes to better appreciate the bouquet and complexity this prestigious Champagne has to offer.
