Bollinger Vieilles Vignes Francaises (VVF) 2002
Bollinger Vieilles Vignes Francaises (VVF) continues the tradition of pre-Phylloxera viticulture and is produced from ungrafted vines in two walled vineyards. The vines are propagated by Marcottage (or Layering), where a small proportion of an aerial stem is trained under the soil and grows roots whilst attached to the parent plant before coming an independent plant in its own right.
The vines produce extremely small yields, which enable the grapes to reach extraordinarily high maturity, sign of a fine wine. Vieilles Vignes Francaises will create an unforgettable memory for those privileged enough to taste the wines. The unique qualities of the Vieille Vignes Francaises further expresses the philosophy of the Bollinger House and wines. They are a memory and a symbol.
The 2000 Vieilles Vignes Francaises stands in a long line of Bollinger Grand Vins. The wine is altogether round and powerful with excellent nerve and vinosity. A total of 3,766 numbered bottles of the 2000 Vieilles Vignes Francaises were produced.
Vieilles Vignes Francaises is a Blanc de Noirs (100% Pinot Noir). It was fermented in small aged oak barrels minimising the taste of oaks or tannins to ensure the wines fully express their aromatic complexity and ageing potential.
Wines of exceptional quality are therefore needed from the outset. Grapes used to make the Vieilles Vignes Francaises comes from the Chaudes Terres and the Clos St Jacques, plots of Pinot Noir Grand Cru from Ay. After bottling, the second fermentation and cellar ageing are conducted under natural cork in order to protect them from oxidation and preserve their freshness as well as the bouquet and clarity of their aromas. The wines age in cellars for at least 6 years, sometimes more.
After manual riddling and disgorging, Vieilles Vignes Francaises receives a low dosage (7 – 9 g/l) and then rests for a minimum of 3 months prior to shipment, time for the wine to assimilate the dosage and settle. Acidity for the 2000 vintage is 6.2 g/l.
