Champagne Billecart-Salmon Cuvée Elisabeth Salmon Brut Rosé 2009

Billecart‑Salmon's prestige rosé is dedicated to Elisabeth Salmon, who co‑founded the estate with her husband Nicolas François in 1818 and oversaw the first blends. The 2009 rendition is sourced entirely from Grand Cru Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards in the Montagne de Reims and Côte des Blancs. Grapes are hand picked and gently pressed; the Pinot Noir is split into portions for white juice and for still red wine, which provides the delicate colour. The base wines ferment at cool temperatures, partly in oak, and malolactic fermentation is avoided to retain vibrancy. The assemblage then ages on its lees for more than ten years in the cellars before disgorgement with a low Brut dosage. Bottled at 12% alcohol, the wine reveals a pale coral hue and persistent mousse. Aromas of wild strawberry, redcurrant, citrus blossom and brioche precede a palate of fine texture, lively acidity and a long, chalk-inflected finish. This cuvée is both graceful and structured, ideal with fine dishes and capable of aging for fifteen years or more.

Tasting Profile

Aroma:

Brioche, Citrus, Strawberry

Food Pairings:

Cheese

Dessert

Shellfish