Bollinger PN VZ16, Champagne

Disgorged in January 2021, Bollinger's newly released NV Brut Blanc de Noirs PN VZ16 offers up notions of pear, apple blossom, jasmine, orange zest and fresh pastry. Medium to full-bodied, precise and elegantly vinous, it's layered and charming, with racy acids and a pretty pinpoint mousse, and it concludes with a sapid finish. It's based on the 2016 vintage, complemented by older reserve wines matured in magnum, and derives, once again, largely from the village of Verzenay. Drink 2021 - 2037.

94 points William Kelley The Wine Advocate (Sep 2021)

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. Dosage is 6 grams per liter. Drink 2021 - 2033.

93 points Antonio Galloni, Vinous

Very deep and youthful nose with a cornucopia of candied citrus and red berries, as well as a touch of herb. Stunning depth of chalky character and fantastic mineral freshness make this really stand out. Dramatic, yet so elegant at the very long finish. 100% pinot noir, of which 50% is from Verzenay and that gives it it’s name. The reserve wines are all Verzenays from 2006, 2009 and 2015. Disgorged January 2021. Drink or hold.

96 points James Suckling

Produced exclusively from vineyards owned by Bollinger, this takes advantage of the dynamic equilibrium between the structured, robust Pinot Noir grape and a terroir that is late-ripening. Picking began on 25 September and delivered a wine with plenty of concentration and impressive freshness and balance, with expressive green apple fruit accented with notes of toast and smoke and a creamy, supple, and open texture. Dosed at 6 g/l. Disgorged in November 2020. Drinking Window 2021 - 2031.

95 points Charles Curtis MW, Decanter

Bollinger's fascination with Pinot Noir has produced some of Champagne's most memorable wines, and the PN collection takes that passion in an exciting direction. Each release explores the character of a particular Pinot Noir village, with PN VZ16 highlighting Verzenay, one of the great Grand Cru sites of the Montagne de Reims. Founded in 1829, Bollinger has long been celebrated for its richly textured, beautifully structured Champagnes, and this limited release reveals a more focused, vineyard driven expression of the house's signature grape.

Made entirely from Pinot Noir, PN VZ16 is based on the 2016 harvest, with reserve wines from earlier vintages adding complexity. Verzenay contributes freshness, structure and a distinctive mineral character, while Bollinger's traditional cellar ageing develops the wine's depth and savoury detail.

Bright golden straw with a fine, persistent bead. Red apple, ripe pear and lemon zest mingle with toasted hazelnut, brioche and delicate spice. The palate is concentrated yet wonderfully energetic, with creamy bubbles, vibrant citrus and subtle red berry notes. A fine mineral thread and gentle savoury character lead into a long, beautifully balanced finish.

Try it with Cantonese roast duck pancakes, chargrilled octopus with smoked paprika or crispy eggplant with miso glaze. Its combination of richness and freshness makes it a particularly rewarding Champagne at the dinner table.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2036+. The Pinot Noir structure and lively acidity should reward further ageing, developing additional toasted and savoury complexity.