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.

Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce you to the exquisite 2013 Billecart-Salmon Extra Brut Champagne Blend. Hailing from the prestigious Champagne region of France, this white wine is a true masterpiece crafted by the renowned Billecart-Salmon winery.

In the glass, this Champagne displays a pale golden hue, shimmering with elegance and sophistication. Its effervescence is a sight to behold, with tiny bubbles dancing gracefully to the surface, creating a mesmerizing display.

On the nose, aromas of freshly baked croissants and brioche waft delicately, enticing you with their inviting warmth. Notes of zesty lemon curd, white cocoa, and marmalade add a delightful citrusy brightness to the bouquet. The overall impression is one of decadence and refinement.

As you take your first sip, the silky bubbles caress your palate, creating a luscious and creamy mouthfeel. The flavors unfold in a symphony of pastry notes, with hints of buttery croissants and delicate brioche. The elegance of this Champagne is further enhanced by its precise balance and refreshing acidity.

This vintage is a blend of 62% pinot noir, 24% chardonnay, and 14% pinot meunier. It exudes complexity and depth, showcasing the mastery of the winemaker. With a dosage of 3g/L, this Extra Brut Champagne strikes the perfect balance between dryness and richness.

Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this wine an impressive score of 93 points. He praised its creamy texture, pastry notes, and elegant finish. Wine Spectator also lavished it with a score of 94 points, applauding its vibrancy, balance, and layered flavors of yellow peach, almond, cherry, and preserved lemon.

This exceptional Champagne was disgorged in November 2021, ensuring that it is at its peak of freshness. It can be enjoyed now or cellared for further development. Pair it with seafood, particularly oysters or lobster, to elevate your dining experience to new heights.

In conclusion, the 2013 Billecart-Salmon Extra Brut Champagne Blend is a true gem of the Champagne region. It embodies elegance, finesse, and complexity, making it a must-try for all wine enthusiasts. Indulge in a glass of this extraordinary Champagne, and let its exquisite flavors transport you to the enchanting vineyards of Champagne.