La Cote aux Enfants Champagne: the first single plot cuvee from Champagne Bollinger.
Since 1829, Champagne Bollinger have strived to reflect the unique terroir of their vines in the Champagnes they produce. The successful Bollinger PN series released in recent years has certainly been testament to this. La Côte aux Enfants, however, could not be a better example of how serious they are about their vision.
La Côte aux Enfants is a steep 4-hectare vineyard, established by Jacques Bollinger between 1926 and 1934. This historic piece of land in Aÿ has two defining features: the south slope, which is vinified as a still red wine; and the north-west slope, used exclusively for La Grande Année Rosé. To say this is one of the finest Pinot Noir vineyards in Champagne is an under-statement.
The 2012 la Cote aux Enfants Champagne is made using grapes exclusively from this vineyard. 100% Pinot Noir, and 100% Grand Cru. A wonderful example of Burgundian Vinosity in a bottle of Champagne.
To the Eye
A champagne tinted with golden yellow glints.
On the nose
Generous on the nose, with notes of toast, roasted nuts, honey and sweet spice. Complimented by more delicate aromas of red berry fruits and dried flowers.
On the palate
A richer style of Champagne, as to be expected from a vintage Blanc de Noirs with extended lees ageing. It leads with soft berry fruit and acacia honey, supported by some lively spice.
“Lively yet delicate mousse. Attractive yellow tropical fruit nuances, hints of peach and mango, fresh meadow herbs, lime zest, very fine hints of walnut and honey blossom in the background. Substantial, complex and silky with dense texture, white stone fruit, delicate hints of liquorice, cinnamon, salty freshness and subtle hints of Golden Delicious. Finely embedded acidity structure, ripe, without any unnecessary sweetness, candied orange on the finish, lingers very long, certain ageing potential for further decades. Already easy to drink, will continue to improve.” 99 points
Peter Moser, falstaff.com
October 2022
October 2022
This champagne is extremely limited in the UK. If you would like more information, or to make a purchase, please call directly or email adam@saxtyswines.co.uk