Description / Reviews
"The 2016 vintage was marked by contrasting climate conditions that went on to shape a unique cuvée. A cold and very wet spring, with higher than average rainfall, gave way to a series of late frosts in April and May, impacting yields. These difficult conditions continued into a gloomy, sunless June, which delayed flowering for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir until the end of the month. But a Champagne Miracle saved the day: from August on, the climate turned on its head, with a hot, dry, and sunny summer providing ideal ripening conditions for the grapes. August and September were characterised by generous sunshine and slightly higher than normal temperatures, allowing the grapes to flourish." - Bollinger, Winemaker
"In 2013, Bollinger did not release a Grande Année but did offer its B13, a single-vintage take on a year considered atypical for the Bollinger style. The concept is repeated in the tricky but ultimately fine quality 2016 harvest with the B16. It presents a relatively delicate, cool and understated vintage relative to the Grande Année. The ripeness of the Pinot Noir is certainly present in the juicy stewed apricot and fresh raspberry fruit, but Chardonnay here brings gentle orchard fruit and fresh grapefruit zest beneath subtle richness of toasted nut and oyster shell complexity from ageing. While Grande Année offers more intensity and drama, and the latest PN series offers dynamism and youthful energy, B16 is perfectly pitched between smooth maturity and approachable brightness, all at a temptingly moderate premium over the non-vintage cuvée. (Drink between 2025-2032)" - 93 Points, Tom Hewson, Vinous
