Today, we have the opportunity to taste Bollinger Grande Année alongside the R.D. from the same vintage.

Now for an interesting comparison: Bollinger’s two top Champagnes from the same vintage 2008. Both are composed of 71% Pinot Noir and 29% Chardonnay.

The Bollinger 2008 Grande Année has a dosage of 9 grams and was disgorged in July 2018. The wine features a very fine mousse, abundant blossom notes, a nearly full body, a clearly perceptible dosage, and great power; it is dense and mineral-driven. It shows great potential yet is already highly enjoyable to drink - the bottle empties very quickly. 18.8/20 points, with further potential.

The Bollinger 2008 R.D. has a dosage of 3 grams and was disgorged in August 2022. This wine also displays a very fine mousse, nutty aromas - specifically Piedmont hazelnut - and a similarly near-full body, along with great power, structure, balance, and high complexity. It is just entering its drinking window and holds great potential. 19.3/20 points.