Brut Réserve

The Brut Réserve is the way into the house of Billecart-Salmon and shows its style directly: freshness, fruit and balance. It brings together Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Meunier from sites within about 20 kilometres of Épernay, that is, from the Montagne de Reims, the Côte des Blancs and the Marne Valley. It spends three years in the cellar, twice as long as the appellation requires. That gives it more depth than you would expect from a non-vintage champagne.

In the glass flowers rise from it, and on the palate peach and ripe pear follow, carried by lively acidity and fine drive. It tastes fresh, juicy and clear. Serve it at 8 to 10 °C in a white wine glass or tulip glass, happily as an aperitif. The Paris chef Michel Rostang recommends it with ginger crab and courgette cream. It is also a reliable companion with light starters and among friends.