Bollinger has a long history of over 175 years. It is an independent family business. A unique feature of this winery is that its vineyard holdings are so extensive that they are virtually independent of external winegrowers. Making good wines requires perfect grapes, and the founders understood this early on. Therefore, the winery continually invests. Bollinger Champagne House was founded in 1829 and is one of the oldest producers in the region. They strive for the very best quality every day. The price of their Champagnes is slightly higher than that of other Champagne houses, but this is because Bollinger uses only the very best grapes. Furthermore, the Champagnes are aged considerably longer. We can only say that it is absolutely worth it.
In 1911, Georges Bollinger's British agent suggested the name Special Cuvée—"special" spelled in the English way, without an accent. He felt the French expression "Brut sans année" was no match for such a subtle champagne... And we agree. This Bollinger Special Cuvée is a very subtle Champagne with very soft flavors and aromas.
The blend for this large bottle consists of 60 percent Pinot Noir, 25 percent Chardonnay, and 15 percent Meunier. The grapes come from very special vineyards, with 85 percent classified as Grand and Premier Cru, all harvested by hand. After harvest, this Special Cuvée is aged for a full 30 months in Bollinger's cellars. This gives it a ripe and full aroma with notes of ripe fruit and light spices, a hint of apple and applesauce, and overripe peaches. The palate is smooth, and the first thing you notice is a fine mousse, ripe fruit notes of apple and peach complemented by nuts, fresh walnuts, and brioche bread.
