Champagne Charles le Bel 'Inspiration 1818' by Billecart-Salmon NV

Billecart-Salmon traces its origins to 1818 when Nicolas François Billecart and Elisabeth Salmon married and founded their estate in Mareuil‑sur‑Ay; the house remains in family hands and is respected for its precise, long-aged Champagnes. The Charles le Bel label honours the founding year and is produced exclusively from estate and partner vineyards in the Montagne de Reims and Vallée de la Marne. The blend is typically one third each Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier from Premier and Grand Cru plots. Grapes are hand harvested and gently pressed; primary fermentation takes place at low temperature in stainless steel to preserve delicate aromatics and a portion undergoes malolactic conversion. The wine is assembled with a reserve wine component to ensure consistency and aged on lees in bottle for around thirty months before disgorgement and Brut-level dosage. Bottled at 12% alcohol under natural cork, it shows pale gold colour and fine bead. Aromas of citrus blossom, stone fruit, almond and brioche lead to a balanced palate with supple texture and chalky finish. This cuvée reflects Billecart-Salmon's philosophy of finesse and purity and is ready to drink on release but will develop over four to six years.

Tasting Profile

Aroma:

Nectarine, Stonefruit, Strawberry

Palate:

Cream, Peach, Strawberry

Food Pairings:

Cheese

Dessert

Shellfish