Bollinger Vieilles Vignes Francaises 2009

Vieilles Vignes Francaises is one of Champagne's most mythical cuvees, produced from miraculously preserved and un-grafted 100% Pinot Noir vines. Phylloxera destroyed the vines of Champagne in the early 20th century. Still, amazingly enough, two of Bollinger's classified Grands crus plots, Chaudes Terres and Clos St. Jacques, survived and are still grown the traditional way. Madame Lily Bollinger first had this wine produced in 1969 as an anniversary Cuvee to commemorate her 70th birthday. Following the wine's launch in 1974, Vieilles Vignes Francaises promptly became a collectible and a symbol of a bygone era. Over the decades, its uniqueness and scarcity have made it one of the most sought-after and expensive Champagnes. This wine is a true gift to experience—deep gold colour. An explosive depth on the nose with floral notes evolves into truffle and acacia honey. A round, creamy mouthfeel impresses its luxury and aromas of candied lemon and gingerbread. There is the extraordinary length and the sensation of spice on the finish.

96+ Points - Vinous

With a few hours of air, apricot, plum, spice, dried cherry and candied orange peel start to appear. In some years, VVF can be pretty opulent, 2002 and 2010 come to mind. The 2009, on the other hand, is much more vibrant. VVF remains one of the most compelling wines, still or sparkling, in the world. It emerges from un-grafted Pinot Noir vines in Aÿ's Chaudes Terres and Clos St. Jacques lieu-dits and is vinified and aged in a barrel.