Category:
 
Sparkling Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Champagne
Producer:
 
Bollinger
Label Name:
 
R.d. Extra
Vintage:
 
2008
Country:
 
France
Region:
 
Champagne (blend from 18 crus, majority Grand Crus)
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
12.5%
Grape(s):
 
Pinot Noir 71%, Chardonnay 29%
Acidity:
 
5
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
4
Length:
 
5
Aroma Intensity:
 
5
Best Temperature:
 
8-10°C

Awards/Ratings
Major scores: James Suckling 99; Robert Parker (Wine Advocate) 98; Wine Spectator 97; Decanter 97; Bettane & Desseauve 98

Tasting Note
Brioche, toasted hazelnut, dried apricot, baked apple and preserved lemon with saline minerality, bright steely acidity, fine creamy mousse and a long, savory finish with subtle oxidative complexity.

Food Pairing
Western: oysters, lobster, smoked salmon, roast chicken, mushroom risotto, aged soft cheeses. Asian: sushi and sashimi, tempura, lightly spiced Thai seafood, Peking duck, Cantonese roast pork.

Production Method
Traditional method (méthode champenoise); primary fermentation largely in oak barrels, extended lees ageing (~13–14 years), hand-riddled and manually disgorged; extra‑brut dosage (~3 g/L).

Vineyard Info
Maison Bollinger (est. 1829), famed for Pinot Noir-driven Champagnes. R.D. (Récemment Dégorgé) is the house prestige cuvée, released after prolonged lees ageing and late disgorgement.