Bollinger

Bollinger began in Aÿ in 1829. Pinot Noir is the predominant grape in its Champagne cuvées, and the house has kept oak vinification for its best crus. It uses previously used barrels rather than new wood to avoid a pronounced new-oak flavour.

A changing Pinot Noir study

PN is made entirely from Pinot Noir. Each edition gives prominence to one cru and one base vintage, making the series a way to follow the grape through different places and harvests. The named four-hectare La Côte aux Enfants hillside in Aÿ produces a still red Pinot Noir; Bollinger also makes a distinct Champagne from the parcel.

What the barrel claim covers

Wood is a documented part of Bollinger’s practice, but the protocol belongs to specific wines. For example, the house describes La Grande Année 2018 as entirely barrel fermented. That does not establish the same fermentation method for every vintage wine it makes. The technical sheet for each release gives the more useful account.

The house announced in June 2026 that Émilien Boutillat will take up the cellar-master role on October 1, succeeding Denis Bunner.