2002 Champagne Bollinger, R.D., Extra Brut

Bollinger’s 2002 R.D. was always going to be special. It is a great vintage, a grand house and a magnificent pedigree. From the beginning, it flows into the glass, creating a superb, creamy mousse that leads to brioche and honeyed hints, signifying all the richness, weight, and sheer concentration that late disgorgement brings to the best Champagne. 

That gorgeous creaminess first seen at pouring comes through again, tight-knit and in multiple waves of different hues and flavours before finally finishing fresh, youthful and even zesty. A terrific wine and one to intrigue for decades – on those very special occasions.

Tom Cave, Private Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd

With the anticipated excitement around the quality of the 2002 vintage, this wine was bound to be thrilling, and we are not disappointed. There is a full and lively mousse, an effervescence that accentuates the aromas of hazelnut, manuka honey, gunflint, white flowers and dried Verbena on the nose. 

At first, the palate is rich, open and full of swathes of ripe pear and honey; in a matter of moments, this opulence turns on itself. The tension and nerve on the back of the palate are incredible; the acidity and energy are taut and steely, much like a playful yet painfully shy child. This 2002 R. D. is complex and cerebral. Full of intrigue now but one that will last for years.

Stuart Rae, Commercial Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd