2012 Champagne Billecart-Salmon Nicolas Francois

The 2012 Champagne Billecart-Salmon Nicolas François is an impressive vintage from this iconic house and is the first release since the famous 2008 vintage. Named after the founder of the champagne house, this cuvée is produced in only the best years and reflects the classic style and finesse for which Billecart-Salmon is known. The context of the 2012 harvest year 2012 was a challenging growing season in Champagne, marked by long flowering, significant rainfall and mildew pressure. The result was a small yield, with ripening varying greatly between plots. Only the ripest and healthiest grapes were ultimately selected for this Nicolas François, harvested between 17 and 22 September. The careful selection ensured exceptional quality despite the difficult conditions. Production and vinification The wine is partially fermented in oak barrels and partially malolactic fermented, 20% of which was blocked to preserve freshness. This contributes to the balance between richness and freshness. The wine matured extensively in the bottle and was disgorged in May 2023 with a subtle dosage of 3.8 grams per liter, which ensures an extra dry, gastronomic style. Tasting notes The 2012 Nicolas François presents itself with a layered and expressive bouquet of candied lemon, honey blossom and ripe peach, complemented by notes of beeswax and orange peel. On the palate, the champagne is rich, powerful and structured, with a concentrated core and chalky texture. The lively acidity provides tension and freshness, which is remarkable given the warm style of the year. The finish is long and salty, with subtle savoury notes that indicate the potential for further ageing