Bollinger
Summary
Bollinger is a family-owned Champagne house in Aÿ controlling 178 hectares of predominantly Grand and Premier Cru vineyards on chalk soils, with Pinot Noir comprising 60% of plantings across their south-facing slopes. Their traditional methods include fermenting in aged oak barrels, maintaining their own cooperage, aging non-vintage wines for 36+ months on lees, and preserving an extensive library of reserve wines stored in magnums under cork.
Heritage & Leadership
Bollinger's story began in 1829 when Athanase de Villermont partnered with Paul Renaudin and Jacques Bollinger to establish the House in Aÿ. The Bollinger family has maintained continuous ownership through six generations, making it one of the few remaining independent Champagne houses. In 2007, Ghislain de Montgolfier passed leadership to Jérôme Philipon, marking the first non-family president. Etienne Bizot assumed the role of chairman in 2019, continuing Bollinger's tradition of measured evolution while preserving its core principles.
Vineyards & Wines
Bollinger owns 178 hectares of vineyards, with 84% classified as Grand and Premier Cru. The estate's holdings center in Aÿ and Verzenay, with Pinot Noir comprising 60% of plantings. The house maintains several historic plots, including the ungrafted Vieilles Vignes Françaises parcel. Vineyards sit on chalk-based soils typical of the Montagne de Reims and Vallée de la Marne, with south and southeast-facing slopes predominating. The average vine age exceeds 20 years, with some parcels dating to pre-phylloxera era.
Philosophy & Practice
Bollinger adheres to specific production protocols that define their house style. Primary fermentation occurs in small oak barrels, many over 40 years old. The house maintains a library of reserve wines stored in magnum under cork, some dating back 15 years. Non-vintage cuvées typically age minimum 36 months on lees, while vintage wines see 5-10 years. Riddling remains partially manual, and all wines undergo extended post-disgorgement aging. The house employs four coopers to maintain their barrel inventory, preserving traditional vinification methods while ensuring consistency.