BOLLINGER Vieilles-Vignes Francaises, Blanc de Noirs 2013 Bottle

Description

“VVF remains one of the most compelling wines – still or sparkling – in the world.” Antonio Galloni

Following its launch in 1974, Bollinger Vieilles Vignes Françaises has promptly became a collectible. Over the decades, its uniqueness and scarcity have made it one of the most sought-after Champagnes . Moreover, and much to its credit, it has almost on its own established the reputation of the blanc de noirs Champagne style and contributed greatly to the rise of the single-terroir Champagne phenomenon.

The vines are ungrafted, which means they are susceptible to the root-munching louse phylloxera and it was in 2005 that one of the three vineyards, Croix Rouge, succumbed and is now no longer part of the make-up. The remaining two plots, Clos Chaudes Terres and Clos St.-Jacques, have survived but this has severely impacted availability.

"The 2013 Vieilles Vignes Francaises is a powerhouse. Deep in color, the 2013 is rich and ample in feel. Apricot, spice, orange jam, cedar, dried herbs, ginger, honey and leather all meld together in a VVF that is decidedly opulent and vinous, despite the cool season and harvest that took place on September 27, late by present-day standards. Sadly, production has decreased steadily since 2008. Accumulated drought has been a challenge. Those conditions are, of course, amplified by the walls of the clos in these two parcels and the naturally warm climate of Aÿ. I find the 2013 decidedly exotic and a bit on the heavy side. Those lucky enough to own it will experience one of the most distinctive wines in all of Champagne. Production was less than 1,000 bottles." 95pts Antonio Galloni.

Beautifully boxed and numbered bottles.