2006 Billecart Salmon Nicolas Francois

Created in 1964 as a tribute to the house’s founder, the youngest release is the 2006 Millesime Brut Cuvee Nicolas Francois, a blend of 60% Pinot Noir from premier and grand crus from the Montagne de Reims and the Grande Vallee de la Marne and 40% Chardonnay from the Cote 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. Dec 2018, www.robertparker.com