Still family-owned to this day, Bollinger was established in 1829 by Jacques Bollinger. Over the years the vineyard holdings of 007’s favourite champagne house have been steadily increased with the largest expansion taking place under the leadership of the legendary Madame Lily Bollinger. Today it is managed by Charles-Armand de Belenet and is one of the few Champagne Houses to produce the majority of their own grapes.
Bollinger only produces vintages in exceptional years. Their affinity for Pinot Noir separates them from other champagne houses. Their vineyards and Special Cuvée are both 60% Pinot Noir while the La Grande Année is 61% Pinot Noir and 39% Chardonnay. Compared to the Special Cuvée which has 15% Meunier in addition to its Chardonnay, La Grande Année has exceptional intensity and minerality.