Bollinger PN AYC18: A Fresh Interpretation of Pinot Noir with Unparalleled Flair
The fourth installment of Bollinger PN has been launched, embodying the brand’s unique interpretation of Pinot Noir, constituting 100% of this cuvée. This latest release continues to offer a fresh rendition of the style.
Crafting the PN Series: Illuminating Pinot Noir
Bollinger crafted the PN series as a means to highlight varied facets of Pinot Noir. Each edition illuminates different terroirs in a premier cru and base year, chosen by Champagne Bollinger. Consequently, this allows the cuvée to present a new identity annually.
Designed for Wine Aficionados: PN AYC18
The wine producer indicated that the cuvée is designed particularly for wine aficionados and connoisseurs who appreciate veering off the traditional wine path. The most recent model, PN AYC18, originates from the Aÿ terroir, the key cru in the blend, and is primarily derived from the 2018 base year.
The 2018 Vintage: Ideal Conditions
Champagne’s 2018 vintage was characterized by a bountiful harvest and an early picking season, with the first mature grapes harvested on August 13th. The initial weather conditions included a wet winter onset followed by typical weather in January and February, leading to a fairly warm spring.
Hail and the potential for mildew initially caused worry, but the fears were alleviated with the arrival of dry, warm weather from June onwards, according to Bollinger. The absence of rain meant that the grapes were spared from botrytis, resulting in “perfect condition” grapes throughout the Champagne region. Bollinger stated that it “swiftly adapted” to the “significant hurdles presented by the 2018 harvest”.
Distinctive Characteristics: Aÿ Terroir and Reserve Wines
Being the primary cru, Aÿ imparts the signature characteristics of Pinot Noir from this terroir to the wine. The reserve wines, aged in magnums, contribute an “extra layer of aromatic complexity to the blend”, said Bollinger, with 53% of PN AYC18 made from 2018 wines and the diverse reserve wines – matured in vats or reserve magnums for older samples – constituting 47% of the blend. The oldest wine incorporated in the blend of PN AYC18 hails from the 2009 vintage.
Tasting Notes: Aromas and Palate
Upon tasting, Bollinger described the AYC18 edition as initially presenting notes of honey, fruit jellies, quince, and even candied citrus. Aromas of marzipan and blood orange add to the bouquet filled with sweet spices and a cool menthol hint. The wine, described as “serious, understated and rich”, is “beautifully sumptuous” on the palate, concluding with a candied citrus finish that “elevates the wine’s freshness”.
A Symbol of Identity: Charles-Armand de Belenet’s Statement
Charles-Armand de Belenet, managing director of Champagne Bollinger, stated: “This wine, intended to be enjoyed amongst wine enthusiasts, represents the pure marriage of a specific grape variety and a grand Champagne terroir. Crafted entirely from Pinot Noir, this cuvée is integral to our House’s identity and our DNA: it encapsulates our unique vision of this emblematic grape variety and the relentless efforts we have made to achieve the mission that has been guiding us since 1829: to be creators of style.”
