1998 Billecart-Salmon Cuvée Nicolas Francois

1998 Billecart-Salmon Cuvée Nicolas Francois, case of six bottles.

The Billecart-Salmon house was born in 1818 with the marriage of Nicolas François Billecart and Elisabeth Salmon. Remaining a family business today, the house strives to build upon the legend of Champagne with a philosophy of finesse, balance and elegance. With grapes sourced from a surface of 170 hectares, the majority come from the region of Epernay, home to the greatest vintages of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier grapes. Billecart-Salmon combines modern technology with nearly two centuries of tradition and the savoir-faire of their staff, forever striving for excellence.

The 1959 and 1961 Cuvée Nicolas Francois Billecart blew every other Champagne off the table at the Millenium Champagne Tasting in 1999, held in Stockholm. Arguably one of the greatest champagne tastings ever held, with over 150 of the finest champagnes ever made. Le Grande Guide des Vins de France 2009 described the 1998 Billecart as a "distinguished champagne, straight and long, truly pure".

Balance and richness: This exceptional cuvée was created in 1964 as a tribute to the House's founder. It results from the blending of grands crus from the classified Côte des Blancs vineyards (Chardonnay) and the Montagne de Reims (Pinot Noir). Its vinification, partially in traditional oak casks, underpins the generous character of this fine, elegant and rich wine.

Appearance: A lovely colour of pale gold and a fine mousse. A cuvée that brilliantly combines slowly rising bubbles with a persistent string of pearls.

Aroma: The freshness of the cuvée Nicolas François Billecart develops all its aromatic complexity - aromas of white flowers mixed with subtle notes of brioche.

Palate: The balance between richness and persistence is the hallmark of this accomplished wine. The perfect blend of grands crus from which it is made gives it a lovely freshness on the palate, developing a wide range of aromas.

Serving: Served at cellar temperature 10°, this vintage will enhance the flavours of poultry or white meat.

From François Domi, Billecart-Salmon chief winemaker.