Bollinger, 2002 Grande Année Rosé Champagne.

The first fermentation was done in small oak casks (205, 225 and 410 litres), lot by lot, cru by cru, grape variety by grape variety. This allows Bollinger to use a very strict selection process. Bollinger only uses old casks (5 years old or older) to ensure that neither tannin or oak flavours are imparted to the wines. This method increases both the aromatic complexity and the ageing capacity of such wines. La Grande Année Rosé ages in the cellars under natural cork.

After bottling, the second fermentation and the ageing in the cellars, is done using a real cork stopper, which ensures a better barrier against oxidisation than the crown cap. This process, quite unique in Champagne, is a guarantee of freshness and allows the aromas to keep their bouquet and clarity.

After disgorgement by hand, the La Grande Année Rosé will rest for a minimum of 3 months before shipment. This is necessary for the wine to assimilate the “liqueur d’expédition” and to settle following disgorgement.

The 2002 Brut Rose La Grande Année is a beautifully detailed, subtle wine. A noble, intriguing bouquet leads dried roses, berries, minerals all of which come together with gorgeous articulation. There is a wonderful balance between the vinosity of the Pinot and the more chalky, minerally elements that preserve freshness. The finish is totally impeccable and classy.

94 Points - Wine Advocate # 192 Dec 2010.