Sparkling Wines Champagne Champagne Bollinger - PN TX17 - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Champagne Bollinger's PN TX17 is a remarkable example of a blanc de noirs Champagne, crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes. The 'PN' in its name denotes Pinot Noir, while 'TX17' highlights the fruit sourced from the Tauxières cru in the 2017 vintage. This single-village expression showcases the character of Tauxières' Pinot Noir, with its complex vinification involving reserve wines and a meticulous approach to blending, typical of Bollinger's house style. The result is a refined yet structured sparkling wine with notes of red apple, brioche, toasted nuts and a gentle smoky undertone, supported by a fine, persistent mousse and a generous, creamy texture.

The Champagne region, situated in the cool north-east of France, benefits from a marginal continental climate and chalky soils rich in limestone and clay. These conditions are ideal for sparkling wine production, as the cool temperatures preserve the grapes' acidity and freshness, while the soils ensure elegant minerality. Champagne's rich history as the home of prestigious sparkling wines dates back centuries, with houses like Bollinger at the forefront of quality and innovation. Tauxières lies on the Montagne de Reims, an area renowned for robust, characterful Pinot Noir, and the 2017 vintage, though marked by early frost, yielded fruit of great precision and freshness.

For food pairings, PN TX17 shines alongside refined yet flavourful dishes. Its texture and depth marry beautifully with poultry such as roast guinea fowl with mushrooms, or veal in a creamy sauce. It also complements local delicacies like pâté en croute or a simple rabbit terrine. The wine's vibrancy and savoury edge make it a fine partner for seafood—think langoustine or scallop carpaccio—while hard cheeses such as aged Comté or Chaource round off the experience.

Serve this Champagne well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C, to enhance its aromatic finesse and lively palate. For full expression, use a tulip-shaped flute or a white wine glass, and allow the wine to open up for a few minutes before sipping. This is a Champagne made for both contemplation and gastronomic delight.