Bollinger RD 2008

R.D. stands for Recently Disgorged: Bollinger keeps these prestige cuvees resting on their lees for years beyond a standard vintage release, disgorging them only when the house judges them ready, for extra depth and complexity.

Disgorged in 2022, this is lively and exceptionally complex, with delicate aromas of marzipan, dried apricot, honey and toasted breadcrumb alongside citrus notes of bergamot and lime, plus orange peel, freshly baked bread, a hint of fino sherry, wet stones and macadamia nut. On the palate it is vigorous and tight, medium to full-bodied, with racy acidity, a refined pinpoint mousse and a long, saline, bone-dry finish.

• Producer: Bollinger
• Country: France
• Region: Champagne
• Vintage: 2008
• Grape: A blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from grand and premier cru vineyards, in the same style as the house's La Grande Annee
• Bottle size: 75cl
• Alcohol: 12.5% ABV
• Style: Prestige cuvee, late-disgorged vintage Champagne
• Serving temperature: 8-10C
• Food pairing: Roast poultry, mature hard cheeses, or rich seafood such as lobster
• Storage: Store horizontally in a cool, dark place with a stable temperature
• Drinking window: Already showing beautifully with youthful energy following its 2022 disgorgement; capable of further development in bottle