Champagne R.D. 2008 Bollinger

Bollinger R.D. 2008 – The Elegance of Time Revealed

A Legendary Vintage, Disgorged Late

Bollinger R.D. 2008 (Récemment Dégorgé) is one of the most iconic wines in Champagne. Produced only in exceptional vintages, this extraordinary cuvée expresses power, precision, and longevity thanks to extended lees aging and recent disgorgement, preserving its remarkable freshness and vibrancy.

Philosophy & Style

The Art of Patience, According to Bollinger

R.D. is born from a unique vision: aging Champagne for over a decade on the lees, then disgorging it shortly before release. This approach enhances complexity and intensity, while maintaining a dynamic freshness.

The 2008 Vintage

Widely regarded as one of the greatest vintages of the 21st century, 2008 was cool, balanced, and rich in natural acidity, ideal for long aging and structured wines.

Tasting Notes

Refinement, Structure & Brilliance

Appearance

Deep golden yellow with luminous highlights and an ultra-fine bead.

Nose

Profound and layered, offering hazelnut, brioche, candied citrus, honey, spices, and a subtle smokiness.

Palate

Dry, structured, and generous. The vibrant acidity lifts a creamy texture, with a long, mineral, and elegant finish.

Vinification & Aging

• Grapes: 60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay

• Fermentation in small oak barrels

• No malolactic fermentation

• Aged for 12+ years on the lees

• Recently disgorged (date printed on label)

• Dosage: Extra Brut (3–4 g/l)

• Unfiltered

Food Pairing

Bollinger R.D. 2008 is a wine for contemplation, yet shines with:

• Caviar and oysters

• Smoked or grilled fish

• Capon or guinea fowl with truffle

• Aged cheeses (Comté, Parmesan)

Technical Sheet

• Name: Bollinger R.D.

• Vintage: 2008

• Producer: Champagne Bollinger

• Grapes: 60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay

• Region: Aÿ, Champagne, France

• Aging: Over 12 years on lees

• Dosage: Extra Brut

• Disgorgement: Recent (indicated on label)

• Format: 750 ml

• Alcohol: 12%

• Cellaring potential: 20+ years

Conclusion

Bollinger R.D. 2008 is a masterpiece of finesse and power, crafted for those who seek the most profound and age-worthy expressions of Champagne. A rare and collectible bottle.

See all products of Bollinger

Maison Bollinger: A Legacy of Excellence Since 1829

One of the Great Names in Champagne

Maison Bollinger is a legendary Champagne house, recognized worldwide for its depth, precision, and unmistakable style. Founded in 1829 in Aÿ, at the heart of the Champagne region, Bollinger has become a true symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and prestige.

History and Founding

Bold Beginnings in the 19th Century

The house was established by Joseph Bollinger, Jacques Bollinger, and Paul Renaudin. From its inception, Bollinger distinguished itself through its unwavering commitment to quality and character. It remains one of the few Champagne houses to retain family ownership for over a century.

Madame Bollinger: The Woman Behind the Myth

After the passing of her husband in 1941, Lily Bollinger became the visionary force behind the brand. Revered for her grace and dedication, she famously said:

“I drink Champagne when I’m happy and when I’m sad…”

Her influence helped shape Bollinger into a global icon.

The Bollinger Style: Power, Complexity, and Longevity

Pinot Noir at the Core

Bollinger’s hallmark is its Pinot Noir-driven style, which brings structure, intensity, and remarkable aging potential to every cuvée.

Reserve Wines in Magnum

A unique feature of the house is its use of reserve wines aged in magnum bottles under natural cork for years. These wines are then blended into non-vintage cuvées to ensure consistency and complexity.

Fermentation in Oak Barrels

Bollinger is one of the few houses to ferment many of its wines in small oak barrels, adding depth, character, and a distinctive signature to its Champagne.

Signature Cuvées

Bollinger Special Cuvée

The flagship wine of the house, made from a blend of multiple vintages, dominated by Pinot Noir.

Bollinger La Grande Année

A vintage Champagne crafted only in exceptional years, vinified entirely in oak and aged for at least 7 years on lees.

Bollinger R.D. (Recently Disgorged)

A prestige cuvée released many years after vintage, aged extensively on lees and disgorged just before release—an ultra-rare experience.

Vineyards and Philosophy

Exceptional Estate Holdings

Bollinger owns over 170 hectares of vineyards, primarily classified as Grand and Premier Cru, especially in the Pinot Noir-rich Montagne de Reims.

Sustainability and Heritage

The estate practices sustainable viticulture and has earned the HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale) certification, a testament to its environmental responsibility.

Final Thoughts

Maison Bollinger is a Champagne house that masterfully blends tradition with innovation. Its wines are renowned for their structure, richness, and aging ability, making every bottle a reflection of its craftsmanship and timeless elegance.

Technical Sheet

• Name: Maison Bollinger

• Founded: 1829

• Location: Aÿ, Champagne, France

• Signature Grape: Pinot Noir

• Winemaking Style: Barrel fermentation, use of reserve magnums, extended lees aging

• Notable Cuvées: Special Cuvée, La Grande Année, R.D.

• Vineyard Size: 170+ hectares

• Sustainability: HVE Certified