The Wine Animal Verdict: Step into the woods and discover a creature of unique character! The Billecart Salmon Brut Sous Bois NV is a Champagne that embraces its oak influence, offering a richer and more complex experience than their classic Brut Réserve. It's like a forest creature with a touch of wild elegance – intriguing, textured, and leaving a lasting impression of depth.
What's in the Cage: "Sous Bois" translates to "under wood," and this Champagne lives up to its name. It's entirely vinified in oak barrels (a mix of new and older), a relatively rare practice in Champagne that imparts distinct characteristics. The blend is typically an equal mix of the three main Champagne grapes: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier, sourced from Premier and Grand Cru vineyards. This NV release also includes a significant portion of reserve wines, adding further complexity. Expect extended aging on its lees, contributing to its richness and fine mousse.
Tasting Notes (based on available information):
On the prowl, the nose is complex and inviting:
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Toasty and Nutty Aromas: Expect prominent notes of toasted brioche, almond, hazelnut, and even a hint of caramel or toffee, directly resulting from the oak fermentation and aging.
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Ripe Fruit Undertones: Layers of ripe orchard fruits (apple, pear), a touch of citrus (lemon, orange peel), and perhaps even a hint of red fruit (raspberry) can be found beneath the oak influence.
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Subtle Spice: Hints of ginger, nutmeg, or a delicate spiciness add further intrigue.
The palate is where this Champagne truly distinguishes itself:
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Rich and Creamy Texture: The oak contributes to a more rounded and generous mouthfeel.
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Balanced Acidity: Despite the richness, a vibrant acidity provides freshness and prevents the wine from feeling heavy.
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Complex Flavors: The toasty and nutty notes carry through, intertwined with the ripe fruit and subtle spice. Some tasters note flavors of baked apple, marzipan, and even a hint of espresso.
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Long and Satisfying Finish: The finish is persistent, with lingering notes of toast, nuts, and a pleasant, dry sensation.
Who's it For: This is for the adventurous Champagne drinker, those who appreciate a richer, more complex style with noticeable oak influence. If you enjoy Champagnes with depth, character, and a departure from the purely fruit-driven styles, the Brut Sous Bois is a captivating choice. It pairs beautifully with food and is a great conversation starter.
Pairing Power: This Champagne's richness and complexity make it a fantastic food wine, pairing well with:
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Poultry Dishes: Roasted chicken, guinea fowl, or duck.
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Rich Seafood: Lobster, scallops, or even grilled fish with butter sauces.
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Mushrooms: Dishes featuring wild mushrooms or creamy mushroom sauces.
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Hard Cheeses: Comte or other nutty, aged cheeses.
- Even some richer, spiced dishes.
The Bottom Line: The Billecart Salmon Brut Sous Bois NV is a unique and compelling Champagne that showcases the impact of oak in a harmonious way. It offers a delightful combination of richness, complexity, and Billecart Salmon's signature elegance. If you're looking to explore a different facet of Champagne and enjoy a wine with a distinctive personality, venture into the "under wood" – you won't be disappointed!
