BollingerB16

<p>Bollinger presents B16, a unique and original creation shaped by nature’s challenges, an illustration of the Maison’s expert know-how when crafting a great vintage Champagne</p><p>The black and white evokes the contrast of the 2016 vintage, with white embodying purity, and the different textures convey the cuvée’s rich sensory expression. As for the clean lines, they perfectly recall the vines of the Montagne de Reims.</p><p>Crystal clear, glimmering with flickers of golden light. Delicate floral aromas interlace with scents of hawthorn and acacia, honey in a display of the bouquet’s infinite finesse. Accents of ripe stone fruits and bergamot bring a lively freshness. A silky texture unfolds with ethereal finesse, bringing subtle elegance and perfect balance.The finish is both long and delicate.</p><p>The 2016 vintage was marked by contrasting climate conditions that went on to shape a unique cuvée. A cold and very wet spring, with higher than average rainfall, gave way to a series of late frosts in April and May, impacting yields. These difficult conditions continued into a gloomy, sunless June, which delayed flowering for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir until the end of the month. But a Champagne Miracle saved the day: from August on, the climate turned on its head, with a hot, dry, and sunny summer providing ideal ripening conditions for the grapes. August and September were characterised by generous sunshine and slightly higher than normal temperatures, allowing the grapes to flourish.</p><p>B16, explores the unique aroma profiles to be found in the terroirs of the Montagne de Reims</p><p>B16 explores an unusual terroir with a focus on the latest ripening areas of the Montagne de Reims and unique aroma profiles. This bold decision provides an example of richness and complexity, a unique and ethereal sensory journey suffused with elegance and a palette of aromas that is silky, balanced, and sophisticated.</p><p>73% Pinot Noir 27% Chardonnay</p><p>This champagne has spent over 7 years on the lees and has a low dosage of 4 grams per litre.</p><p>To fully appreciate its unique style and aromas, B16 is best served between 8 and 10°C. You can enjoy B16 now or leave it in the cellar to develop further.</p><p>Pairs beautifully with chilled veal sweetbreads with veal consomme, fennel, and citrus to highlight the Champagne’s freshness and finesse.</p><p><i>“Lively and more floral than many a Bollinger champagne – almost transparent and filigree. The opposite of heavy with marked but not excessive acidity at this stage. Much is happening at the house of Bollinger under chef de cave Denis Bunner! B13 Brut preceded it.”</i>17.5pts Jancis Robinson <i>“Another limited-edition vintage release by Bollinger, this 2016 wine is super supple and blooming already upon release. Atypically for Bollinger, Bouzy from the south side of the Montagne de Reims is the dominant village with a 25% share. Of the 30% of Chardonnay complementing the Pinot Noir, Trépail leads the blend, lending exotic spiciness and sweet fruitiness to the appealing whole. Fermentation in oak gives a spicy signature to the lush, fruity nose of orchard fruit, yellow plum and orange blossom. This wine is on the elegance in its caressing silkiness and salty tang. In a quest of letting the terroir speak, Bollinger is restricting the dosage to 4g/l.”</i>94-96pts Essi Avellan</p>