1966 Bollinger R.D.

Disgorged 7 March 2011. The crop was reduced by chlorosis, then widespread. Summer storms and hail further reduced the crop on 200 ha. Healthy grapes wre harvested from 22 September. 75% Pinot Noir.60% grands crus. Yield 7,000 kg/ha, initial potential alcohol 10.3%, TA 8.4 g/l. Deep gold with a hint of orange. Very subtle nose – but that slight hint of putty that's evident in the 1988 and 1996. Definitely old but still lively and with no shortage of mousse. A hint of mushrooms. Rich, even a little sweet now. An intellectual pleasure. Honeyed note on the end. Maybe the fruit is giving way to structure now but it is hugely impressive. Not that long but very beautiful. More than a hint of red burgundy about this wine. (JR)