Hand Picked Hotels Unveils Brand New Champagne Experience / By Esther Knowles

If there’s anything that can automatically make a weekend getaway feel luxurious, it’s a bottle of fizz. On that note, Hand Picked Hotels has, very conveniently, partnered with Champagne Bollinger to introduce a series of refined experiences celebrating Le Grande Année 2015, a rare and distinguished vintage.

Launched in the summer, ‘The Bollinger Edit’ brings together two family-owned historical houses to offer guests the finest gourmet packages.

From now until November, the collaboration provides a limited-time opportunity to indulge in a countryside retreat, spa experience or afternoon tea, all while appreciating some quality Champagne.

While you can enjoy a glass alongside finely crafted sandwiches and freshly baked scones for just £60-£70, there is also the chance for you and a chosen partner to spend the whole weekend indulging in fine dining, spa days and multiple bottles from £1,000.

Founded in 1829, Champagne Bollinger is one of the last remaining independent, family-run Champagne houses. It is revered for its uncompromising quality and time-honoured craftsmanship. La Grande Année (meaning “The Great Year”) is only produced in vintages of exceptional character.

The 2015 release, which was recognised as one of the standout vintages, was vinified entirely in oak and aged for a decade prior to release.

Each bottle is hand-riddled and hand-disgorged, reflecting the maison’s meticulous approach to excellence.

The collaboration with Hand Picked Hotels unites two heritage-led institutions to celebrate their shared values of independence, heritage and dedication to craft.

Hand Picked Hotels, founded by Julia and Guy Hands, is a family-owned collection of characterful country houses and coastal retreats with over 25 years of experience in creating luxury escapes. Similarly, Champagne Bollinger is one of France’s most revered independent houses with almost two centuries of winemaking mastery.

Just as every bottle of Bollinger’s La Grande Année is crafted with patience and precision, every experience with Hand Picked Hotels is thoughtfully curated to celebrate quality, individuality and the joy of making memories.

Together, they present a considered collection of limited-time guest experiences available across the fill Hand Picked portfolio.

Julia Hands, chairman of Hand Picked Hotels, said she is “delighted to collaborate with Champagne Bollinger, a house whose values of heritage, quality and elegance reflect our own,” adding that the partnership “enables us to offer truly distinctive experiences that celebrate exceptional hospitality and craftmanship”.

Speaking on behalf of Champagne Bollinger, Justin Liddle, Mentzendorff managing director, said: “Our mission is to offer fine wine lovers great experiences of enjoyment and sharing by creating fine champagnes with a unique and legendary taste.

Hand Picked Hotels are an exceptional collection of hotels, boasting a noble British heritage and we see a strong alignment in our vision, and approach to exceptional hospitality.”

As for La Grande Année 2015 itself, the vintage Champagne has a rich and textured taste reminiscent of plum jam. It combines notes of chocolate with small stone and citrus fruits to create a delicate woody scent with an essence of vanilla.

Aromas of cherry, blackberry, blackcurrant and raspberry are followed by a hint of almond and an exotic surprise of mango.

Factbox

The Bollinger Escape – a two-night countryside retreat for two, featuring fine dining, spa indulgence and bottles of La Grande Année 2015 (£1,000–£1,500).

The Bollinger Spa Experience – an indulgent spa day for two with treatments, wellness access and a bottle of La Grande Année 2015 (£350).

The Bollinger Afternoon Tea Experience – a refined twist on the classic British ritual, paired with a glass of Bollinger La Grande Année 2015 (£60–£70).

The exclusive Bollinger packages will be available at selected hotels until November 30.

All imagery credit: Hand Picked Hotels