The 1982 vintage for Champagne is widely celebrated as a near-perfect year, delivering harmonious Champagnes with balanced acidity and approachable richness. It was a consistently great harvest, producing rich yet elegant and finely balanced Champagnes of great longevity. Bollinger's 1982 R.D. (Récemment Dégorgé – Recently Disgorged) is an outstanding Champagne, known for its complexity, finesse, and exceptional maturity. The blend is typically 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay, resulting in a muscular and vinous style. Tasting notes describe complex aromas of mandarin, iodine, mocha, dried fruits, vine smoke, spices, brioche, apple, grapefruit, almond custard, and a kaleidoscopic base of minerality. On the palate, it is full-bodied, pillowy, and layered, with a fleshy core of fruit, lively acids, and a long, chalky, intensely sapid finish. Well-preserved bottles continue to offer refined and rewarding mature Champagne experiences, with some showing remarkable freshness even after decades. 【A consistently great harvest of rich yet elegant and finely balanced Champagnes of great longevity】. This exceptional, mature Champagne is ideal for significant celebrations, milestone anniversaries, or as a centerpiece for a luxurious tasting event. Its complexity and depth warrant a moment of quiet appreciation. When handling such an aged bottle, be mindful of the cork and capsule, which can be fragile. While R.D. is designed for extended aging on its lees, a gentle decant might be considered if there's any concern about sediment, though it's often best enjoyed directly from the bottle after a brief rest. Serve chilled at around 10-12°C (50-54°F) in large tulip-shaped Champagne glasses to allow its intricate aromas to unfold. 🍴 This Champagne pairs exquisitely with shellfish, crab, lobster, and rich poultry dishes. Its nutty and savory notes also complement creamy cheeses and even some lighter game.