BOLLINGER 'SPECIAL CUVEE' CHAMPAGNE BRUT NV

Varietals: 60% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay, 15% Meunier

Region: Champagne, France

Tastes Like: A golden color, distinctive of black grape varieties. Very fine bubbles. On the nose, it has a beautiful aromatic complexity, ripe fruit, and spicy aromas, with hints of roasted apples, apple compote, and peaches. On the palate, there is a subtle combination of structure, length, and vivacity. The bubbles are like velvet. Flavors of pear, brioche and spicy aromas, notes of fresh walnut.

Pairs with: Sushi and sashimi, shellfish such as shrimp, prawns, crayfish and grilled lobster, poultry and white meat, cashews, parmesan or prosciutto.

What the Pros Say: Decanter - 96 Points: "The complexity and richness of Special Cuvée is unparalleled among the entry non-vintage blends of every Champagne house, short of ascending to the mesosphere of Krug. Its grand recipe explains why, built on incredible depth of 50%-60% reserves. Triumphant complexity is a given at Bollinger, but it’s the dynamic freshness and vitality that really set it apart as one of the most affordable Champagne benchmarks."