Tasting Notes
Vinous 94
The 1997 Extra Brut R.D. needs quite a bit of air to open up. The wine shows tons of depth in a dark, dramatic expression of the vintage. Ripe apricots, pears, smoke, minerals and ash are some of the nuances that flow from this broad-shouldered, expansive Champagne. Once again, I find striking depth and detail in all dimensions of the wine. Personally, I am more inclined to the style of the Grande Annee, but the 1997 R.D. is undoubtedly a gorgeous Champagne. This is an intense wine that needs to be paired with food. The 1997 R.D is 65% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay of which 75% is Grand Cru and 25% is Premier Cru. This is Lot L017935. Disgorged January 4th, 2010.
Anticipated maturity: 2013-2017
Robert Parker 93
Tasted at the Bollinger RD vertical in Paris. The 1997 has a languid but persistent mousse. The nose displays good intensity with fine mineralite intermingling with grilled walnuts, smoke and just a faint touch of beeswax. The palate is very well balanced with a citric thread of acidity, lemon peel, fresh red gooseberries, green apple and crushed stone. The acidity drives the finish, though it is just a little unruly on the bitter lemon and cantaloupe finish. Very good length, this 1997 RD evolves nicely in the glass, become ever more refined and elegant. Tasted July 2011.