Members -- 5 days ago
A golden year for a prestige cuvée
Champagne Billecart-Salmon unveils the 2012 vintage of its Nicolas François cuvée, a fresh and delicate expression of a wonderfully fruitful year
The 1818 marriage of Nicolas François Billecart and Elisabeth Salmon was a fateful one: it marked the creation of their Champagne House, Billecart-Salmon. The couple’s legacy has endured over seven generations, as the Maison has gone from strength to strength.
In 1964, the Nicolas François cuvée was unveiled in honour of the co-founder of Champagne Billecart-Salmon and one half of the legendary couple. Renowned for its elegant encapsulation of the Billecart-Salmon house style, it is crafted from a meticulous selection of great Crus from the classified vineyards of Montagne de Reims (Pinot Noir) and Côte des Blancs (Chardonnay).
Now, the iconic cuvée enters its latest incarnation. Introducing the Nicolas François Millésime 2012. The year 2012 is widely regarded as one of the greatest vintages in its decade, thanks to an exceptional growing season that yielded perfectly ripened grapes with a balance of richness and vibrant acidity. The resulting champagne, partially vinified in traditional oak casks, is aromatic, complex and charismatic.
Lucas Reynaud-Paligot, Head Sommelier at The Connaught in Mayfair, describes the 2012 vintage as having “a really pleasant freshness, some yellow fresh fruits and citrus touch. I truly believe that the minerality is just ‘wow’. The small part of oak brings a touch of vivacity and depth to wine”. He recommends serving it between 10 and 12°C to intensify the tasting experience and pairing it with tuna and caviar for the ultimate aperitif.
You can purchase the Champagne Billecart-Salmon Champagne Le Réserve at champagne-billecart.fr
Learn more about the Nicolas François Millésime 2012...
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