Bollinger Brut Champagne Spécial Cuvée NV

96 points Tyson Stelzer (The Champagne Guide): "(tasted in 2020 in Australia;25% chardonnay, 60% pinot, 15% meunier; more than 300 crus; more than 85% grand cru and premier cru; probably 2015 base vintage; 15% fermented in old oak barrels; aged 3–4 years on lees; disgorged October 2019; 8g/L dosage; 90% of production). True to the mandate of attentiveness to the intricate details of freshness, Special Cuvée continues its evolution to a fresher and more lively style. The fragrant, red-fruited generosity that defines the southern Montagne de Reims style of Bollinger leaps from the glass in a captivating panoply of red apples, red cherries and succulent red berries of all kinds, intricately juxtaposed by the cut of citrus freshness. Old barrel fermentation and lees age unite in amplifying a deep core of spicy complexity. The generous, creamy texture of barrels and lees magnificently contrasts the pronounced fine, salty chalk minerality of esteemed crus. As brilliant and rock-solid as ever. (Edition VII; 2024)"

96 points James Halliday (Wine Companion): "Surely the most underpriced champagne on the market today, yet one of the most complex. The 60/25/15% pinot noir/chardonnay/pinot meunier blend is of scant importance compared with the 400 components with 60% reserves, the oldest 8+ years old. Majestically complex and layered in a jewelled crown of freshness. Special. (6/17/21)"

95 points Decanter: "If it’s good enough for James Bond, it’s good enough for you. Bollinger Champagne has made a number of cameos in James Bond films over the year. This non-vintage Special Cuvée is an example of a classic Champagne done well. Notes of marzipan on the nose and the palate give toastiness and leesy notes, specifically sourdough. It’s classic for a reason and would only elevate any table it finds itself on. Drinking Window: 2022-2032. (12/27/23)"

94 points Falstaff Guide: "Medium golden yellow, silver reflections, very fine, lively mousseux. Fine yellow fruit, nuances of golden delicous apple and mango, a hint of orange and cookie. Full-bodied, balanced, integrated fruit sweetness, finesse-rich acid structure, mineral-salty, lemony-salty finish, a multi-faceted companion at the table. (10/6/23)"

93 points Wine Spectator: "[$95 list] Fine and seamless, with mouthwatering acidity well-meshed with a rich range of crème de cassis, poached apricot, gingerbread and almond extract flavors, plus accents of fleur de sel, Meyer lemon peel and star anise. Long and lively on the creamy finish. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. Drink now through 2028. (12/15/23)"

93 points Audrey Frick (JebDunnuck.com): " A rich though youthful golden hue, the NV Champagne Special Cuvée Brut is classic and ripe with lush, rounded, and complex aromas of golden apricot, hazelnut, wet stone, and black cherry. Made with 45% of the wine coming from the 2019 vintage, with 55% reserve wine, it’s full-bodied yet elegant and light on its feet, with a ripe and luxurious feel and just a hint of warmth on the finish. The mousse is refined and rounded. Long on the palate, it's inviting now but will have plenty of life ahead of it if stored property. This exceptional cuvée with its distinctive personality continues to be one of the best entry wines to the range from this house and is a benchmark wine for them. (11/17/23)"

93 points Allen Meadows (Burghound): "Restrained and very pretty aromas include those of yeast, Meyer lemon, petrol and green apple where the latter element is picked up by the utterly delicious, vibrant and detailed flavors that possess fine complexity on the agreeably dry but not austere finish. The supporting mousse is dense but fine and overall, this is a wine that could be enjoyed now or held for up to a decade. Excellent. Drink: 2024+. (Jan 2022)"

93 points James Suckling: "Lovely density and a fine-bubble texture. Dried apple and apricot with hints of dried flowers. Medium to full body. with medium-rich fruit. Spice, zest and ginger character. Usually 10% in barrel. 60% pinot noir, 25% chardonnay and 15% pinot meunier. About 40% reserve wine kept in magnums. Always really well done. Drink now. (8/7/23)" >

93 points Bettane & Desseauve Guide: Drink: 2022-2030. (2024).