Billecart-Salmon's Champagnes possess a sleek, timeless elegance that's utterly beautiful.
Their 2008s take this signature to the extreme. It's difficult to imagine a vintage dovetailing with a producer's style better.
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The 2008 vintage in Champagne is one of the most thrilling young vintages that we've tasted. It is pure, harmonious, and has a beautifully energetic structure. We simply love the vintage.
First produced in 1955 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the estate, Nicolas François has an impressive track record. Sit down with any Champagne fanatic, and they'll wax poetic when mention is made of the 59 and 61 Nicolas François - even today, these wines are supposed to be in top form.
A blend of 60 percent Pinot Noir and 40 percent Chardonnay, the Nicolas François is not shy. There's an obvious intensity to the wine and an undeniable palate presence. Yet, it pulls off this intensity with shocking detail, freshness, and fineness. There is a superb sense of balance and a spine of bright acidity that is this wine's calling card.
The 2008 has an incredible level of gracefulness and precision, married to depth and length. It is also endowed with Billecart’s hallmark harmony and aristocratic poise.
When Nicolas François Billecart is on, few Champagnes can compete in terms of class. The 2008 dramatizes the heights that the wine can reach.
To order, email offers@crushwineco.com or call the store at (212) 980-9463.
Ian McFadden
Director, Fine & Rare
Crush Wine & Spirits
Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media: "The 2008 Brut Cuvée Nicolas François Billecart is an electric, nervy Champagne that very much reflects the style of the year. Crushed rocks, mint, spice, dried herbs, hazelnut, lemon peel and marzipan are all beautifully laced together. The 2008 is just entering its first plateau of maturity, making it a fine choice for drinking now and over the next two decades, possibly more. The blend id 60% Pinot Noir (from Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Ambonnay, Bouzy, Verzy and Verzenay) and 40% Chardonnay (from Mesnil, Chouilly and Cramant). It's a terrific effort, although I must add that a recent visit made it pretty clear that even better things lie ahead. Dosage is 4 grams per liter."