Bollinger PN AYC18

Bollinger, Aÿ, Champagne

Vintage 2018

Style Champagne

Blend of grapes 100% Pinot Noir

Winemaker Denis Bunner

Alcohol 12.5%

Dosage Moderate, 6g/l

Details of production

Bollinger PN AYC18 is the fourth edition in the Bollinger PN range, showcasing the specific characteristics of the Aÿ terroir, the main cru of its blend. Made exclusively from Pinot Noir, Bollinger PN has been crafted by the House to express its unique vision of this specific grape variety. A predominant grape across the range, Pinot Noir is the pillar of the Bollinger style. Bollinger PN embodies the ambition to bring to light the variety of expressions of Pinot Noir by selecting the finest varietal from several terroirs, each contributing a unique component to the overall taste. In Champagne, the 2018 vintage was characterised by abundant yields and an early harvest. Chalk moderated conditions in Grands Crus vineyards, resulted in particularly outstanding, very concentrated grapes with a natural average ripeness and powerful acidity. Reserve wines contribute to the wine’s exceptional aromatic intensity, especially the Pinots Noirs aged in magnums for almost 11 years, bringing further complexity to the blend.

Tasting Notes

Golden with bronze reflections. The aroma of the AYC edition is first characterised by notes of honey, fruit jellies, quince and candied citrus. Aromas of marzipan and blood orange also complement the nose. On the palate, it is understated and rich, with a beautifully expansive finish, full of confit citrus which enhances the wine’s freshness.

How To Serve

PN AYC18 is designed to be shared between wine enthusiasts looking for different expressions of Pinot Noir from Champagne. We recommend you serve PN AYC18 between 10 and 11°C to highlight its unique style and aromas. You can enjoy this wine right away or keep it in the cellar for further ageing.

A wine of constant surprise and contrast, first with the heat and generosity of 2018 offering up voluminous roasted apricots and apples, a bittersweet orange citrus and peach kernel richness, a surprisingly silky and flowing mousse and finally an intriguing, smoky, reductive element coming from the magnum reserve wines. It’s a hugely engaging, detailed and rewarding wine, bold but refined. 100% Pinot Noir, predominantly from Aÿ, with support from the villages of Tauxières and Verzenay. Based on the 2018 vintage, with 50% reserve wines back to 2009.

Tom Hewson Decanter, March 2024