Ever since 1829, Champagne Bollinger have strived to make the Champagne terroir ever more perfect, and their identity is clearly expressed in the wines they produce. Through continuous research and development, Champagne Bollinger have enriched their understanding of the many profiles of one of their finest vineyards, La Côte aux Enfants in Aÿ, a legendary 4-hectare parcel of land established by Jacques Bollinger himself between 1926 and 1934.
 
This elevated location has two defining features: its south slope, which is vinified into a still red wine, and its north-west slope, the hidden side of Bollinger’s historic parcel. The two hectares of land which make up this hidden side have been used exclusively to produce Bollinger champagnes since day one, mostly in La Grande Annee Rose, but they have always believed it had more potential in terms of quality, so Bollinger decided to leverage the plot to make a distinctive fine champagne since the 2012 harvest.
 
This cuvée, having aged on the lees in the cellar for over seven years, now reveals an exceptional vintage. La Côte aux Enfants Blanc de Noirs 2014 embodies the vision that Jacques Bollinger had for this parcel’s potential. The 2014 is a gorgeous 100% Pinot Noir Grand Cru and is a wonderful example of the ‘Burgundy-vinosity’ character at Bollinger. Fermentation takes place in 100% small old oak barrels, aged for almost 10 years on its lees en magnum and riddled by hand.
 
Available in tiny quantities in individual bottles in their own wooden case, I am delighted to offer the brand new release at a few pennies below the 2013 (£2,400 per 3) and below the 2012 (£2,600 IB per 3) – 2014 is of course a superior vintage to either, being both the most approachable of the three, as well as the vintage with the best potential for ageing.

Blend: 100% Pinot Noir Grand Cru, from the parcel of La Côte aux Enfants. Exclusive use of the cuvée. Fermented entirely in aged oak barrels. At Bollinger, only very high-quality harvests become a vintage: density and complexity characterise the 2014 vintage of La Côte aux Enfants Champagne.

Maturation: Sealed with a natural cork and cellar aged for more than twice the time required by the appellation.

Dosage: Moderate, 6 grams per litre.

N.B. This wine is not currently in stock but can be ordered, usually for delivery within a few weeks -  please email info@cellarselect.co.uk for availability and lead time, or it will be confirmed after an order is placed.