PN AYC18, the fourth edition of the magnificent Pn by Maison Bollinger, is an excellence that conveys the company's unique vision of Pinot Noir. This extraordinary Champagne is the result of a blend in which Pinot Noir, the 100% protagonist grape variety, is exalted to the max. The focus is on the terroir of Aÿ, the main cru that gave life to this creation, with particular attention to the 2018 vintage.
- Harvest : The harvest that year was unique, with abundant yields and an early harvest, starting on August 13th. It is interesting to note that the soil of Aÿ, enriched by the presence of Marl, a particular stone that characterizes the Champagne region, has favored the growth of extremely concentrated grapes. These grapes reached an average natural ripeness of 11° and maintained surprising acidity.
- Characteristics : Thanks to this combination of factors, Pn Ayc18 is able to authentically express the characteristics of Pinot Noir that emerge from the terroir of Aÿ: a linear character, a surprising length and a breadth that embraces the senses. But there's more: the reserve wines, carefully aged in larger barrels, give this cuvée an extraordinary aromatic complexity
- Tasting : At the first taste, Pn Ayc18 caresses the palate with the enveloping notes of honey, followed by a seductive fruit jelly, the elegance of quince and the liveliness of candied citrus fruits. The nose is then conquered by an explosion of aromas, including marzipan and blood orange, which complete a bouquet rich in sweet spices. And when it ventures into the realm of the palate, this wine proves perfectly balanced, revealing its understated yet opulent nature. Its personality expands gracefully, leaving an unforgettable finish of candied citrus, which enhances its freshness and invites another sip.
Data sheet
SIZE: 0.75 liter bottle.
ORIGIN : France.
VARIETIES : 100% Pinot Noir.
ALCOHOLIC CONTENT : 12% vol.
SERVING TEMPERATURE: Temperature between 8/10°C.
STORAGE METHOD : In a cool place and away from sunlight.
PRODUCER : Champagne Bollinger - Aÿ, France.
SPECIFIC NOTES : Contains sulphites.
History Champagne Bollinger
The story begins with Athanase de Villermont, the youngest son of a noble family with a brilliant destiny. A great soldier who shone during the American War of Independence, he inherited from his family a large property in the Aÿ area. He immediately understood the extraordinary potential of Champagne wines, but as an aristocrat he was forbidden to devote himself to trade. He then met Joseph Bollinger, a well-traveled German who had left his home country to learn about the Champagne wine trade, and Paul Renaudin, a local man who was fascinated by the world of wine. The Renaudin-Bollinger & Cie company was founded on 6 February 1829. Giuseppe takes care of sales and Paolo takes care of the cellar. Athanase had founded a champagne house that would last for centuries. Joseph Bollinger married Louise-Charlotte, daughter of Athanase, in 1837. In time their sons, Joseph and then Georges, took over the business. From the phylloxera crisis to the turmoil of the Great War, they would face some of the House's greatest challenges. However, under the guidance of the two Bollinger brothers he acquired great notoriety and considerably expanded his vineyards. In 1920 Jacques Bollinger, son of Georges, found himself at the helm of the House: a heavy burden for a 24 year old. He faced the challenge with courage, helped by his cousins Pierre and then Yves Moret de Rocheprise; as Bollinger's strength also lies in his powerful family ties. Sophisticated, cultured and fluent in English, Jacques increased Bollinger's prominence across the Channel. When the Scot Elizabeth Bollinger (née Law de Lauriston-Boubers) married Jacques in 1923, she too would become passionately involved in the fate of the House. She was only 42 when she lost her husband at the height of the war. Without hesitation and with great dignity she stepped in to take the baton. "Madame Jacques", as she was nicknamed within the House, threw herself body and soul into her new role. During her many trips abroad her natural grace and charm worked wonders. Cheerful and witty, Madame Bollinger was nevertheless a formidable strategist. A fearless entrepreneur, she was also very perfectionist and tolerated nothing short of excellence, was always ready to innovate and was the driving force behind the highly original Bollinger RD cuvée. With her usual common sense, Madame Bollinger gathered around her the family members who best knew how to follow in her footsteps. He first taught Claude d'Hautefeuille, his niece's husband, the ins and outs of the house. In 1950 he became Director and launched an ambitious modernization program in compliance with Bollinger's quality requirements. Madame Bollinger appointed him President in 1971, but she remained closely involved until her death six years later. Madame Bollinger's nephew, Christian Bizot, took over from Claude in 1978. A great traveller, like his aunt Lily before him he made a point of meeting with sommeliers, restaurateurs and wine merchants to promote the wines of the Maison. A great president, he was known for his frankness and informality. In 1994 it was the great-grandson of the founder Joseph Bollinger who became head of the House. After starting his career in Chile, Ghislain de Montgolfier continued to develop the Maison with the pursuit of excellence as his guiding light. It continues to maintain a policy of voluntarily limiting the quantities produced to increase quality, while remaining faithful to the Bollinger spirit. A tireless worker, Ghislain has a great sense of humor and combines scientific rigor with enthusiasm for success. In 2007 his technical expertise led him to be elected head of the Council of the Union des Maisons de Champagne and co-president of the Comité interprofessionnel du vin de Champagne. In 2008, a new, unfamiliar President was appointed. This was Jérôme Philipon, a native Champagne who built an impressive career with large industrial groups. It is the first time in Bollinger's history that his future has been entrusted to someone outside of his family. Together with his family, Jérôme Philipon has continued to develop Bollinger Champagne and ensure that its principles and values are respected. In 2017 Charles-Armand de Belenet became CEO of Champagne Bollinger. With him, Bollinger continues to preserve its artisan tradition by incorporating the best of innovative technologies, to pursue a future of commercial development and quality for the brand.