Champagne Billecart-Salmon is an independent and family-owned champagne house situated in the charming village of Mareuil-sur-Ay in the heart of Champagne. It was founded in 1818 after the marriage of Nicolas Francois Billecart and Elisabeth Salmon.

Since then, for almost 200 years, every member of the Billecart family has continued to stand by their oath of giving priority to quality and striving for excellence. Today, the 6th generation is represented by Francois and Antoine Roland-Billecart, who lead this independent house with the support of their father, Jean Roland-Billecart. The firm owns 74 acres of its own vines and purchases grapes from growers comprising another 346 acres. Ninety percent of the fruit for Billecart comes from 40 crus within a 20-mile radius of Epernay.

The Billecart portfolio includes the Brut Reserve, Brut Rose, Extra Brut, Demi-Sec, Brut Sous Bois, Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru, Cuvée Nicolas François Billecart, and the ultimate expression for the House, the vintage Le Clos Saint Hilaire, a blanc de noirs Champagne sourced from a tiny plot planted in 1964.

The winery employs sustainable viticulture practices, without the use of pesticides and herbicides, and the wines are aged in oak in Billecart's limestone cellars.

The 2006 Billecart-Salmon Nicolas Francois Billecart Vintage Brut is a remarkable Champagne blend that embodies elegance, complexity, and refinement. With a beautiful golden hue, this wine captivates both the eyes and the palate.

On the nose, the aromas of fresh honey and bright poached apples mingle with delicate dried flowers, cherry pastry, and a hint of richness. As the wine unfolds on the palate, a ripe array of white peaches, baked cherry pastry, and a complex, smooth fleshy texture delight the senses. The flavors of white peaches and brioche linger, creating a memorable and satisfying finish.

Renowned critics have praised this vintage. James Suckling, from jamessuckling.com, awarded it an impressive 94 points, noting its drinking potential in the next decade. Wine Spectator also awarded it 94 points, highlighting its fine and creamy texture, bright acidity, and lovely range of flavors, including orange pâte de fruit, marzipan, lime blossom, and toasted brioche. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, with a score of 95 points, commends its superb showing, bursting with aromas of warm bread, citrus oil, wild berries, smoke, and gingerbread. Decanter, with a score of 96 points, praises its elegance, complexity, and long-lasting zesty character. Wine Enthusiast awarded it 95 points, describing it as ripe, balanced, and hinting at toast and almonds. Vinous, with an impressive score of 97 points, highlights its bright, crystalline nature, with flavors of lemon confit, white flowers, mint, crushed rocks, and sage.

This vintage Billecart-Salmon Champagne is a true gem that is drinking well now but has the potential to age gracefully for years to come. With its impeccable balance, refined texture, and vibrant flavors, it is a testament to the artistry and expertise of the Billecart-Salmon winery. Indulge in this exceptional Champagne and experience the epitome of elegance and sophistication.