Bollinger is indeed considered a fancy Champagne, and for good reason. The house has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality and prestigious sparkling wines. But what exactly makes Bollinger stand out from other Champagne producers?
First and foremost, Bollinger is known for its unique approach to winemaking. One of the key factors that sets them apart is their use of oak casks for fermenting their base wines. While most other Champagne producers use stainless steel tanks for fermentation, Bollinger believes that fermenting in oak adds complexity and richness to their wines. This technique is more labor-intensive and time-consuming, but the results speak for themselves.
The use of oak imparts subtle flavors and aromas to the base wines, adding layers of complexity and enhancing the overall quality of the final product. It also allows for a gentle oxygenation during fermentation, which can contribute to the development of unique and distinctive characteristics in the Champagne.
Another aspect that contributes to Bollinger's reputation as a fancy Champagne is their commitment to traditional winemaking methods. They adhere to strict quality standards and employ a hands-on approach throughout the entire winemaking process. From hand-harvesting the grapes to carefully selecting the best cuvées for blending, Bollinger ensures that only the finest wines make it into their bottles.
Furthermore, Bollinger has a long history and heritage, which adds to its prestige. The house was founded in 1829 and has been family-owned ever since. This continuity and dedication to producing exceptional Champagnes have earned Bollinger a loyal following of wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
In terms of taste, Bollinger Champagnes are often described as full-bodied, rich, and complex. They are known for their depth of flavor, with notes of toasted brioche, ripe fruits, and a distinctive biscuity character. Bollinger's wines also have a reputation for aging well, with the potential to develop even more complexity and nuance over time.
It's worth noting that Bollinger Champagnes are not inexpensive, which further contributes to their image as a fancy Champagne. The use of oak casks, meticulous winemaking techniques, and the overall quality of the wines all contribute to their higher price point. However, for those who appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into producing a bottle of Bollinger, the experience can be well worth the investment.
Bollinger is considered a fancy Champagne due to its unique winemaking techniques, commitment to tradition, long-standing heritage, and reputation for producing high-quality and complex sparkling wines. Its use of oak casks and dedication to handcrafting each bottle set Bollinger apart from other Champagne houses, making it a sought-after and prestigious choice for wine lovers around the world.