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Domain: Billecart-Salmon

The search for new ‘smaller’ producers shouldn’t push the more established Champagne figures out of the way. Especially if they deserve the attention they get, as is the case for Billecart-Salmon, a maison that is still family-run and independent. Considering their quest for refinement and elegance, this level of excellence should have a place reserved in the cellar of every wine lover. Including yours, of course.

Founded in 1818, Maison Billecart is certainly not the oldest yet is probably one of the most famous champagne houses and still in the hands of the same founding family (supported since 2005 by the Frey group). Maison Billecart Salmon was born from the union of two great family owners of vineyards in Champagne, when Nicolas-François Billecart married Elisabeth Salmon in 1818. Very prosperous at the end of the 19th century (the wines were then known and appreciated as far as the United States and Russia), the maison, located in Mareuil sur Aÿ, would experience major setbacks of fortune at the beginning of the 20th century. They have now resolved these issues and the house remains the property of the Billecart family. Today it is François and Antoine Roland-Billecart who run it and their father, Jean Roland-Billecart, still keeps an eye on the heritage. Located in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, it gets its supplies around Epernay from the best terroirs. Interestingly, Billecart belongs to these maisons that make barrels which means that part of the harvest is vinified in Burgundy parts. The grand cuvée Clos Saint-Hilaire is vinified in its entirety. From a stylistic point of view, Billecart-Salmon embodies finesse and precision. These are always great wines, both as an aperitif and with meals, fresh and with admirable energy.