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Regular price
€136,80
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Vintage:
2016
Denomination:
Champagne
Grape variety:
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
Origin:
France, Champagne
Alcohol:
12%
Format:
0.75 L
Product origin:
Business
Serving temperature:
10°
When to drink:
Aperitif, Dinner, Business dinner, Special occasions
Type:
Champagne
Taste:
Fresh and mineral, with a balance between tension and creaminess, and a persistent and refined finish
Flavorings:
citrus fruits, dried fruit, bread crust, toasted notes
Allergens:
Sulphites
Longevity:
15 years
What kind of wine is Champagne Extra Brut 'Vintage 2016' - Billecart-Salmon (cased)
The Champagne Extra Brut 'Vintage 2016' - Billecart-Salmon (cased) represents one of the most authentic interpretations from the historic Maison Billecart-Salmon, a symbol of elegance and precision in the French Champagne region. Born from a skillful balance between Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the best crus of the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Blancs, this Extra Brut embodies the art of the renowned Champenoise method — the traditional process of secondary fermentation in the bottle that gives Champagne its unmistakable effervescence and aromatic complexity. A wine for those who love the purity and transparency of the terroir, encapsulated in a contemporary style that remains true to tradition.Details of the vintage
The 2016 vintage in Champagne was marked by varied weather: a cool and humid spring gave way to a hot and dry summer, with ideal temperature fluctuations for balanced grape ripening. These conditions favored the development of concentrated and healthy berries, capable of producing wines with an intense aromatic profile and vibrant acidity. The result is a Champagne of great balance, with an elegant structure that encompasses all the tension and freshness of a superior quality vintage.Winemaking and aging
The Champagne Extra Brut 'Vintage 2016' - Billecart-Salmon is born from meticulous winemaking according to the méthode classique, with secondary fermentation in the bottle and a long aging on the lees of approximately 5 years. This period imparts greater complexity and a fine creaminess to the perlage. The dosage of only 4 g/l defines its "Extra Brut" category, synonymous with freshness and purity of fruit, without sugary concessions that would alter its natural balance.Tasting notes
Color
In the glass, it presents a brilliant golden hue with luminous reflections, a sign of impeccable maturity. The fine and persistent bubbles create a regular and refined crown, expressing a perlage of great quality.Nose
The nose opens with complex notes of ripe fruit – apple, pear, and candied citrus – which blend with more evolved notes of brioche, toasted hazelnut, and chalky minerality. With aeration, floral nuances and a delicate smoky hint emerge, typical of the Billecart-Salmon style.Palate
On the palate, it surprises with the harmony between freshness and structure. The sip is decisive, supported by a balanced acidic backbone and a creamy sensation that adds depth. The finish is long and savory, with a persistence that leaves the mouth clean and an elegant, lasting mineral memory.Food pairings for Champagne Extra Brut 'Vintage 2016' - Billecart-Salmon (cased)
This Extra Brut Champagne pairs perfectly with refined but not overly elaborate dishes that enhance its purity and complexity:- Seafood crudités, oysters, and white fish carpaccio
- Shellfish and tuna or salmon tartare
- Dishes based on noble poultry or veal with a light butter sauce
- Soft cheeses like Brie or Chaource
Storage and aging: how to store Champagne Extra Brut 'Vintage 2016' - Billecart-Salmon (cased)
To best preserve the freshness and aromatic balance of this Champagne, it is important to store it following a few simple rules:- Temperature: keep the bottle between 10°C and 12°C, avoiding temperature fluctuations.
- Light: store in a dark place or with soft light, away from direct sources of heat and light.
- Position: store the bottle horizontally, to keep the cork consistently moist and ensure a perfect seal over time.
Billecart-Salmon
The history of the Billecart-Salmon winery The Billecart-Salmon winery is a symbol of excellence in champagne production, thanks to its long history that combines tradition, heritage, and innovation. Founded in 1818, this family-run winery has spanned several generations, jealously guarding its p...
How to best open and serve Extra Brut 'Vintage 2016' Champagne - Billecart-Salmon (gift box)
1. Bottle positioning
Before opening, place the bottle of Extra Brut 'Vintage 2016' Champagne - Billecart-Salmon (gift box) horizontally in the refrigerator or a refrigerated cellar for at least 3-4 hours. If the wine has been stored for a long time, let it rest upright for about 30 minutes before opening, so that any sediment can settle at the bottom.
2. Ideal serving temperature
The right temperature is essential to fully appreciate the aromatic complexity of this vintage Champagne. The ideal serving temperature is between 8°C and 10°C. Avoid serving the wine too cold, as excessive cold would mask its aromatic nuances and the fine texture of the bubbles.
3. Opening the bottle
To properly open the Extra Brut 'Vintage 2016' Champagne - Billecart-Salmon (gift box):
- Gently remove the foil cap, keeping the wire cage (muselet) in place.
- Hold the cork with one hand and the bottom of the bottle with the other, tilting the neck slightly.
- Slowly rotate the bottle, not the cork, applying gentle pressure to prevent wine from spilling or excessive carbon dioxide loss.
- The ideal sound is not a "pop" but a dull hiss, a sign of controlled opening that respects the bubbles.
4. Inspection and first taste
After opening, pour a small amount of Champagne into a glass. Observe the clarity and the fineness of the perlage. Smell to ensure that the aroma is intact and fresh, with notes of ripe fruit, white flowers, and hints of pastry, typical characteristics of a vintage like the Vintage 2016. Taste to check that the temperature is correct and that the wine is balanced and expressive.
5. Decanting and oxygenation
Although decanting is not common for Champagnes, in some cases—especially for vintages like this—it can be useful to enhance the aromatic complexity. If you wish to perform this step:
- Use a wide, colorless decanter, well cleaned and free of residual odors.
- Slowly pour the Champagne along the inner wall of the decanter, avoiding dispersing the bubbles.
- Allow to oxygenate for 10-15 minutes, enough time for the bouquet to fully evolve and open up.
6. Serving
Serve the Extra Brut 'Vintage 2016' Champagne - Billecart-Salmon (gift box) in tulip-shaped Champagne flutes or white wine glasses, which enhance the aromatic complexity and precision of the bubbles. Fill them one-third full and wait a few moments before tasting, to enjoy the perfect balance between freshness, minerality, and persistence.
7. Storage after opening
If not entirely consumed, reseal the bottle with a specific airtight Champagne stopper and store it in the refrigerator. This way, the wine will maintain its effervescence and aromatic qualities for 24-48 hours. Avoid storing it at room temperature, as the carbon dioxide would rapidly dissipate and the aromas would lose intensity.
