Billecart-SalmonVintage2008

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 Vintage is dominated by the great Pinot Noir flavours which is tempered by the elegance of the Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs. rrWeather:After a rainy but mild winter without any prolonged cold spells, spring arrived with some very localised frosts. Cool weather returned in June and the infrequent sunshine prolonged the feeling of freshness. The spring to autumn weather was bright with sunny spells and the long, hot days and cool nights during September gave the grapes excellent acidity during the harvest period. The 2008 vintage is fast emerging as one of the best since the renowned and now-legendary 2002.rrTechnical Information:rVineyards: Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims and the Grande Vallée de la Marne Mareuil-sur-Aÿ and Aÿ. Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs Avize, Cramant, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger, Chouilly and VertusrGrape Varieties: 65% Pinot Noir, 35% ChardonnayrLees Ageing: 9 yearsrDosage: 4 g/lrDrink: Now to 2028rrTasting Note:The yellow gold hue is adorned with delicate, soft golden glints. The nose has a fruit intensity with citrus notes and nuts. A taut and seductive tactile citrus zest palate with a defined structure.