Billecart-SalmonRendez-vousNo.1MeunierExtraBrutNV

Champagne Billecart-Salmon was founded in 1818 following the marriage of Nicolas-François Billecart and Elisabeth Salmon. Located in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ near Épernay, the House remains family-owned, today led by seventh-generation Mathieu Roland-Billecart.rrChef de Cave François Domi retired in 2016 after 30 years, succeeded by Florent Nys, who joined in 2005. Vineyard management is overseen by Denis Blée. Together with sixth-generation François Roland-Billecart and Antoine Roland-Billecart, they form part of the seven-member tasting committee guiding the House style.rrIn the 1950s, Jean Roland-Billecart pioneered low-temperature fermentation in stainless steel â€?now a hallmark preserving fruit freshness. Today, wines are fermented in stainless steel, temperature-controlled large oak casks, small oak barrels, or a combination, depending on the cuvée.rrBy 2020, production drew on 300 hectares: 100 hectares estate-owned and certified organic in 2025; 100 hectares under contract (herbicides and chemical fertilisers eliminated in 2019); and 100 hectares from grower partners. The vineyards span 40 crus, mostly within 20 km of the winery. In 2017, the House achieved High Environmental Value certification.rBillecart-Salmon Rendez-vous No.1 is the latest addition to the Billecart-Salmon range, a 100% Meunier blend, rarely seen in Champagne. Created from the historic terroirs of Leuvrigny, Festigny and Venteuil in the Marne Valley, where the Pinot Meunier varietal gives wine from this region its distinctive identity. Leuvrigny and Festigny vineyards are on the left bank of the Marne Valley, exposed to the east and south, on limestone subsoil. Venteuil vineyards are on the right bank of the Marne Valley, exposed to the south, on loamy subsoil. No.1 is based on 2014.rrTechnical Information:rVineyards: Villages of Leuvrigny, Festigny and Venteuil in the Marne ValleyrGrape Varieties: 100% MeunierrLees Ageing: 4.5 yearsrBase Wine: 2014rReserve wines: 33%rDisgorged: December 2019rDosage: 4.5 g/lrDrink: Now to 2028rrTasting Note:A golden yellow hue with lime and violet aromas on the nose, juicy citrus is present and onto the palate, white cherry, pear and redcurrant. The Meunier is giving a great texture and with 4 years on lees the mid palate is rounded and balancing the acidity. Has a great finish with hints of bright citrus fruits and a hint of pepper and dash of salinity. Love the balance and energy.