Tasting the new release of Bollinger PN AYC21 with Essi Avellan MW.
Aÿ is one of the rare 17 villages to be classified as Grand Cru in the Champagne region. The vineyards are situated at the heart of three important areas: the Côtes des Blancs, Montagne de Reims and Vallée de la Marne. PN AYC21 is made up of 49% reserve wines, including 25% aged in magnums of 2012, 2013 & 2014 Aÿ, are then added to bring a sense of aromatic harmony and further complexity to the blend.
17.5+/20
“A cooler damp summer and no LGA produced means the choice of grapes was wide open. Bollinger being super strong in the south facing slopes of Ay bring that ripe fruit charm, wafts of bitter lemon and grapefruit combine with spicy red fruits like strawberry and peach blended with hints of spice from the 49% reserve wines back to 2012 in magnum, bring density and texture to the palate. A lighter style than say the AYC 2018, but very much a delicious addition to the PN lineup.”
