Expert: Paul Wagner - 12/27/2007

Question
Paul, I was given a bottle of Bollinger champagne white in 1979 for my wedding and have had it stored in a dark cool place for the past 28.5 yrs. I would like to know if this has any particular value or any info you may give me on it ! The lable is Bollinger champange AY France R.D. 1969 Degeorge LE 27 Janvier 1977, produce of France NM 2433 362 also who may I contact for this if it has value ! Thankyou

Answer
Hi Fred

This was a lovely wine...but it is probably getting a bit old at this point.  Even with perfect storage conditions, this one will be showing it's age:  losing some of its bubbles, color browning a bit around the edges, and tasting a bit tired and flat.  This was a nice wine--but not the quality of Bollinger RD, for example.  

I would estimate the value now to be something like $75-150...but it would be hard to sell because of questions and concerns about storage. If it were mine, I would drink it this year, with family and friends.  And I would have another bottle on hand as a backup.

Sorry I can't give you better news.

Paul Wagner