Sunday, May 17, 2009

"Tradition is meaningless without great quality..."



....Francois Billecart

Recently I was fortunate enough to enjoy a glass of Billecart-Salmon's 1998 Nicholas Francois Billecart Brut. This beautiful champagne, also appreciated by Robert Parker, was rated a 94 and is 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay. Although there is a higher percentage of Pinot Noir I took notice more of the fruit expressed by the Chardonnay. The nose was of chalky minerality, a touch of white flowers and crisp green apple. On the palate there is green apple but also a subtle nuttiness and absolutely elegant. In general, 1998 vintages from Champagne are said to be brilliant and this one does not disappoint!

Billecart-Salmon is based out of Mareuil-sur-Ay, Champagne and they are known for their timeless style and elegance. They were founded in 1818 from the marriage of Nicholas Francois Billecart to Elizabeth Salmon. It is one of the few Houses to still be family owned . The estate also takes their consistancy very seriously and one of the ways they ensure this is by blending the wines in steel tanks. From there they are placed in small burgandy casks and aged deep in their chalk caves dating from the 17th to 19th centuries.

Treat yourself to a beautiful piece of tradition and quality!

Food Pairing: Although gorgeous on it's own this would be perfect with a citrus roasted chicken.