2002 Bollinger R.D. Extra Brut Champagne [JS99][W&S97][JD96][WS96][JG95][V95][BH94][D94]

Producer: Bollinger  
Region: Champagne, France  
Blend: 60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay  
Year: 2002 

The 2002 Grande Année R.D. from Bollinger has garnered widespread acclaim, with multiple critics effusively praising its complexity, balance, and ageing potential.

James Suckling, 99 Points 

James Suckling, renowned for his discerning palate, bestowed an impressive 99 points upon this remarkable Champagne. Despite a decade in the cellars, it exudes remarkable freshness, with vibrant citrus notes of lemon, grapefruit, and chalky undertones. Its super dry palate, coupled with a silky texture akin to sherbet, culminates in a long, smooth finish accentuated by toasted cashew nuts and a medley of fruit flavors.

Wine & Spirits, 97 Points 

Wine & Spirits awarded the 2002 Grande Année R.D. 97 points, noting its evolution from a powerful yet fresh ten-year-old wine to an even more extreme iteration with lower dosage and additional time on the lees. The wine's structure, intensified by barrel-aged base wines from 23 crus, harmonizes seamlessly with its bright peach and apple flavors, underpinned by a strong limestone character.

Jeb Dunnuck, 96 Points 

Jeb Dunnuck's 96-point rating emphasizes the wine's need for aeration to reveal its full potential. Comprising a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from 23 different crus, this Champagne offers a dry, savory profile evolving into stone fruits, toasted nuts, and exotic spices. With a chiseled palate and a dosage in the 3-4 grams range, it boasts incredible complexity and depth. 

Wine Spectator, 96 Points

Wine Spectator echoes the sentiment with a 96-point score, praising its impeccable balance of power and elegance. Notes of crème de cassis, toasted brioche, and crystallized honey dance on the palate, supported by a rich, smoky undertone and a finely detailed bead.

John Gilman, 95 Points 

Gilman's 95-point review describes the 2002 R.D. as one of the most beautiful young vintages, characterized by a myriad of fruit, patisserie, and floral aromas. Pure, full-bodied, and generously textured, it promises both immediate charm and long-term aging potential. 

Vinous, 95 Points 
Vinous awards the 2002 Extra Brut R.D. 95 points, highlighting its remarkable tension and structure, despite over two years since disgorgement. Concentrated depth and low dosage accentuate flavors of chamomile, sage, and dried flowers, hinting at a future of even greater complexity. 

Burghound, 94 Points

Burghound's 94-point rating lauds the wine's mature aromas of brioche, citrus, and baked apple, complemented by a refined mousse and a long, classy finish reminiscent of a blanc de blancs.

Decanter, 94 Points 

Decanter's 94-point score celebrates the wine's 13 years on the lees, culminating in a sublime expression of the late-disgorged style. With its lively texture, crisp energy, and characteristic notes of coffee and toast, this Champagne is poised to age gracefully for decades to come.

In all, the 2002 Grande Année R.D. from Bollinger stands as a paragon of excellence, captivating critics with its unparalleled complexity, balance, and potential for evolution over time.

Alcohol: 12% 

*Discounts do not apply to items like this one in the Fine & Rare category. Price and availability in store may vary.