Bollinger, Champagne AOC, La Grande Annee Rose Brut
2014, Champagne, France
Classification Champagne AOC
Colour / Type Rose, Sparkling
Bottle size 75cl
Alcohol 13%
Grape Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
Drinking window 2026
Average score 94
The Champagne house Renaudin Bollinger was founded on 6 February 1829 in A by Hennequin de Villermont, Paul Levieux Renaudin and Jacques Bollinger. The partners agreed that the Villermont name would not be used on the labels, hence the house name Renaudin Bollinger. Starting when Jacques Bollinger married Charlotte de Villermont, the house has been managed by the Bollinger family. Even though Paul Renaudin passed without an heir to his name, the label did not become solely Bollinger until the 1960s. Bollinger was modernized under the direction of Claude d'Hautefeuille, who acquired additional vineyards and developed the brand internationally. Following Claude, his cousin Christian Bizot took over the Bollinger house. In addition to expanding the world distribution of Bollinger, Bizot developed a Charter of Ethics and Quality in 1992. Since 1994, Ghislain de Mongolfier has managed Bollinger. A great-grandson of the founder, Mongolfier has also served as president of the Association Viticole Champenoise since 2004, after leading the Commission of Champagne for 10 years. In April of 2021, Bollinger finalized a purchase of Willamette Valley's Ponzi Family Winery in Oregon Wine Country, on the West Coast of the United States. The region has been known to grow some of the best Pinot Noir wine grapes in the world, and this purchase marks another esteemed French producer becoming more involved in American West Coast wine production
About Bollinger
Champagne Bollinger, established in 1829 in Aÿ, France, is a historic and independent Champagne house recognized for its commitment to quality, tradition, and distinctive style. The house has remained family-run for over six generations, with a deep-rooted philosophy centered on excellence, authenticity, and respect for the land. Bollinger’s vineyards span 179 hectares, predominantly classified as Grand and Premier Cru, and are planted with a majority of Pinot Noir, which forms the backbone of their wines. This focus on Pinot Noir, alongside Chardonnay and Meunier, gives their Champagnes structure, complexity, and longevity.
Bollinger’s approach to winemaking is characterized by a dedication to craftsmanship and time-honored methods. The house employs traditional techniques, such as fermenting wines in small aged oak barrels, which contributes to the complexity and aging potential of their Champagnes. Bollinger is also one of the few producers to maintain a reserve wine library in magnums, aged under cork, which are blended into their non-vintage cuvées to ensure consistency and depth of flavor year after year.
The estate’s vineyards are managed sustainably, with a strong emphasis on biodiversity, soil health, and environmental stewardship. Bollinger has received the High Environmental Value (HEV) and Sustainable Viticulture in Champagne certifications, reflecting their commitment to responsible viticulture and the preservation of their terroir for future generations.
The house produces a distinguished range of Champagnes, including the flagship Special Cuvée, celebrated for its richness and elegance, as well as vintage expressions such as La Grande Année and R.D., which showcase the house’s ability to craft wines of remarkable intensity and finesse. Bollinger’s rosé and prestige cuvées further demonstrate their expertise and dedication to producing wines with character and distinction.
Throughout its history, Bollinger has built a reputation for independence and integrity. The house’s identity is shaped by the vision of key figures such as Madame Lily Bollinger, whose leadership and passion helped cement Bollinger’s place among the great Champagne houses. The estate’s cellars, some dating back to the 19th century, are integral to the maturation process, providing optimal conditions for aging and developing the wines’ signature style.
Bollinger’s strong sense of heritage is matched by a forward-looking spirit, embracing innovation while honoring tradition. The house remains committed to producing Champagnes that reflect the unique character of their vineyards and the expertise of their winemakers. Their wines are celebrated worldwide for their depth, complexity, and ability to age gracefully, making Bollinger a benchmark for lovers of fine Champagne.
In summary, Champagne Bollinger stands as a symbol of tradition, quality, and dedication to the art of Champagne. With its exceptional vineyards, meticulous winemaking, and unwavering pursuit of excellence, Bollinger continues to craft wines that capture the essence of their terroir and the spirit of the house.