2006 Billecart-Salmon, Cuvée N.F. Billecart

TASTING NOTES

"Created in 1964 as a tribute to the house’s founder, the youngest release is the 2006 Millésime Brut Cuvée Nicolas François, a blend of 60% Pinot Noir from premier and grand crus from the Montagne de Reims and the Grande Vallée de la Marne and 40% Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs. Almost entirely fermented in stainless steel (only 5% was vinified in oak barrels) and aged for 11 years on the lees, this is a beautifully ripe and rich yet pure champagne with ripe fruit flavors intermixed with chalky notes and brioche/nougat flavors. The palate is intense and concentrated in its rich fruit and substantial depth but also tight, highly elegant and perfectly balanced. The typical finesse of Billecart-Salmon is palatable as well as amazingly pure, with the persistent structure of a great Champagne. The 2006 already drinks dangerously well, but there is no need to hurry, this will go a long way. My sample is from lot L 193A815 45578 that was disgorged in April 2018. Tasted in November 2018." Stephan Reinhardt, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Interim Issue
(WA, 12/07/2018)

Rating: 97
Drink from: 2019-2036

"A rounded vintage, with very attractive white peach, apricot and nectarine fruits as well as lemon and yellow grapefruit, dried flowers, orange rind and some clotted cream. The palate has an assertive, sturdy and punchy feel to it. Bright acidity that's lime sorbet-like. Good length and plenty of fresh stone fruit flavors. Fleshy and lively. Drink this now." JamesSuckling.com
(JS, 01/08/2018)

Rating: 96
Drink from: 2018

"Tiny bead. Very broad, complex nose with both lift and a hint of autolysis. Like brocade, it's woven so intricately." JancisRobinson.com
(JR, 12/17/2017)

Rating: 17
Drink from: 2017-2026

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