In the early 20th century, the vines of Champagne were destroyed by phylloxera. In order to fight the devastating insect, everything had to be replanted using American rootstock. Everything, except two Bollinger plots in Aÿ classified as Grand cru which remained untouched: Chaudes Terres and Clos St Jacques. To this day, these two plots are grown the traditional way, following the ‘provignage’ method, worked by hand and even sometimes with the help of a cart-horse. Bollinger Vieilles Vignes Françaises is a symbol of a bygone era: an extraordinary and moving legacy.A total of 3 702 numbered bottles of the 2005 Vieilles Vignes Françaises vintage were produced.

To the eye: Deep gold. The colour of a bright autumn morning.

To the nose: Very intense, characteristic of mature vintages. Quince, honey, dried apricots and candied fruits flavours. Tertiary aromas of grilled, toasted bread. 

To the palate: A round, creamy mouthfeel with an effervescence that melts into the wine. A saline, mineral finish. Incredible length with exceptional richness and maturity.