R.D stands for “Recently Disgorged” and was an innovation of Madame Bollinger who wished to release a Champagne that would be released ready to drink and would combine extraordinary freshness with greater aromatic complexity. Sourced entirely from Grands and Premiers crus, it is generally a Pinot Noir-dominant blend with Chardonnay and is aged for more than three times the minimum ageing requirement of 3 years for vintage Champagnes. 1990 is widely considered to be an excellent vintage with perfect growing conditions.