Bollinger 2008 RD Extra Brut

The Bollinger 2008 RD Extra-Brut, disgorged in 2022, emerges from the glass with a mesmerizing golden hue, sparkling with hints of light. Its aroma is captivating, offering a symphony of scents that dance delicately on the senses. Enticing notes of marzipan, stewed apricots, and honey mingle with subtle hints of breadcrumbs and fresh bergamot, creating an irresistible bouquet. On the palate, this extraordinary wine reveals a rich and precise mousse, enveloping the palate with its velvety texture. Vibrant citrus notes lead the way, followed by flavors of Mirabelle plums and vine peaches, adding depth and complexity to the tasting experience. The wine is remarkably vivacious, with each sip unveiling layers of nuanced flavors. Fresh hazelnuts and a touch of salinity linger on the palate, culminating in an intense and everlasting finish that leaves a lasting impression. Bollinger 2008 RD Extra-Brut is a true testament to the Maison's commitment to excellence, offering a harmonious blend of elegance, complexity, and finesse.

Robert Parker - 98+ Points

"When I was tasting Bollinger's brilliant Grande Année in this vintage, I was trying to imagine how good the 2008 Extra-Brut R. D. would be, as the style of the vintage seems almost perfectly adapted to this cuvée. Four years later, we have the answer, and the wine is brilliant. Disgorged in 2022, it's more reserved out of the gates than the dramatic Grande Année was on release, unwinding in the glass with notes of crisp orchard fruit, orange peel, freshly baked bread, subtle hints of fino sherry, wet stones and macadamia nut. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, with a deep core of fruit that's animated by racy acids and a refined pinpoint mousse, concluding with a bone-dry finish. Extremely harmonious and full of youthful energy, it's the finest R. D. of the decade and one that will richly reward a bit of additional age on cork. In style, the most obvious comparison is with the 1996, but the 2008 is more integrated and harmonious on release. These bottles were disgorged late last year with three grams per liter dosage."

Antonio Galloni - 96 Points

"Bollinger’s 2008 R.D. is a powerful, vinous Champagne. Apricot, dried pear, tangerine oil, hazelnut, dried flowers, chamomile and brioche all race across the palate. The 2008 boasts notable depth and textural intensity, with a feeling of phenolic, almost tannin-driven grip from the Pinot that propels the finish. At times the R.D. is quite exotic, even if there is a good kick of energy from the bright, salivating acids and low dosage. The 2008 R.D. is very much a Champagne for the dinner table, a wine that benefits immensely from aeration. In 2008, the blend comprises fruit from 18 villages, 71% Pinot Noir, mostly from Aÿ and Verzenay and 29% Chardonnay, mostly from Mesnil-sur-Oger and Cramant. Dosage is 3 grams of dosage. I would give this a few more years in bottle to fully come together. Disgorged: October 28, 2022."