Bollinger PN (VZ16) Champagne, NV

PN VZ 16 is a 100% Pinot-focused (PN) blend from vineyards in Verzenay (VZ) based on the 2016 vintage. With the high proportion of Pinot coming from the chalky soils of Verzenay, PN VZ 16 showcases the charm of this unique terroir. Wonderful depth, elegance and tension, combine with a beautiful saline finish. Bollinger are famed for their Pinot Noir so there is little surprise that it’s signature rich, open style shines through. The wonderful smoky, nutty and caramel tones imparted by Bollinger’s distinct foudre ageing are already present and the reserve wines, aged for up to 15 years en magnum, add to its exceptional aromatic intensity.

Soft, open-knit and wonderfully inviting PN VZ 16 is a worthy follow up to the sublime 2015 that launched this new Blanc de Noirs in the Bollinger range last year. Sweet red cherry, Mirabelle, spice, mint and dried flowers all grace this wonderfully translucent, expressive Blanc de Noirs. North-facing sites in Verzenay that confer tension and energy make up about half the blend, with wines from Aÿ, Bouzy and Louvois playing supporting roles. Vinification is done in equal parts steel and oak. This release is based on 2016 (50% of the blend), with reserve wines that go back to 2006, including 23% from reserve magnums. Readers who enjoy Blanc de Noirs will adore the PN VZ 16. I find the interplay of vibrancy and the creamier notes that are so typical of the house style to be incredibly appealing.
93 pts Antonio Galloni

`Bright and vibrant on the palate, the PN VZ15 captures all of the Pinot richness that is such a Bollinger signature but with the freshness and verve that make Pinots from Verzenay so distinctive. Rich red fruit, mint, dried flower and spice notes play off bright acids and veins of saline-drenched minerals in a display of aromas, flavors and textures that dazzle all the senses. Think of it as a baby VVF, but with the tension of Verzenay. The blend is approximately 50% Verzenay and 50% Aÿ, Bouzy and Louvois, done about half in steel and half in oak. This release is based on the 2015 vintage (50% of the blend), with reserve wines that go back to 2009, including 20% from the reserve magnums Bollinger is so famous for. The new PN VZ 15 is superb, and sharply priced as well, something that is not often the case with new grande marque Champagnes these days. Don’t miss it.` 94/100 points. Antonio Galloni (Vinous)