Bollinger La Grande Année is the house's landmark vintage Champagne — released only in the finest years and expressing the full depth of Bollinger's artisanal philosophy. The 2018 is a generous, invigorating expression of the vintage, led by Pinot Noir sourced from Bollinger's most prized crus. Elegant and refined, with a character that balances ripe fruit and floral delicacy with the structured complexity that defines this cuvée.
The blend draws on 19 crus across Champagne's finest vineyards, sourced exclusively from Grand and Premier Crus. Pinot Noir dominates at 66%, contributing structure, depth and concentration from Verzenay, Aÿ and Mareuil-sur-Aÿ. Chardonnay at 34% provides freshness and finesse, drawn from Chouilly and Cuis. Vinification is conducted entirely in oak barrels, with the finest barrels selected for the final blend — a labour-intensive process that distinguishes Bollinger from virtually every other major Champagne house.
Tasting Notes
Colour: Golden yellow.
Nose: Fresh and inviting, opening with citrus, Granny Smith apple and white peach, followed by apricot and mirabelle plum. Fresh almond and breadcrumbs lend a toasty, yeasty complexity, while acacia honey and mineral notes emerge alongside a delicate floral lift of white peony.
Palate: Structured and beautifully balanced, with stewed fruit and quince providing warmth and richness. The effervescence is creamy and progressive, carrying the wine across the palate with elegance. Complex citrus peel character adds length and precision.
Finish: Long and smooth, with the purity of Grand Cru fruit carrying through to a refined, mineral close.
Blend & Winemaking
66% Pinot Noir, 34% Chardonnay. Sourced from 19 crus, exclusively Grand and Premier Crus. Vinification entirely in oak barrels; the finest barrels selected for blending. Slow ageing on lees followed by maturation under cork. Cellar ageing in Bollinger's historic caves — more than twice the minimum required by the Champagne appellation. Riddled by hand. Disgorged by hand. Dosage 6 g/L.
Reviews
95 Points — Angus Hughson, WinePilot, September 2026
"This 2018 Vintage Champagne, made with 66% Pinot Noir and 34% Chardonnay, is bright, harmonious and approachable with youthful citrus and florals now joined by honeyed toast that builds in the glass. Dry with creamy acidity while layers of brioche and gingerbread fill out a very long and textural finish. Delicious now with undoubted staying power."
