WINES OF THE WORLD -- SPECIAL HOLIDAY "PARTY" EDITION

Welcome to Wines of the World Special Holiday "PARTY' Edition --
Tis the season...

“Champagne is one of the elegant extras in life” Charles Dickens

In this issue of Wines of the World.., we are going to step outside the box and.., considering it is the time of year for all those holiday parties, that are usually accompanied with cheap (bad) champagne, that will leave you suffering with a hangover so bad, you wish you were dead (we've all been there).

Champagne is synonymous with celebration… And since we are in the middle of our Holiday season where people from all over the world choose to celebrate and revel in such a wonderful time of year.., I thought it only proper to introduce you to, not only a champagne of sheer elegance -- but one that will not give you a hangover (this comes from personal experience).

So, today we travel to a place with soil so rich, you could grow rocks if you wanted… A place that will transport you back to time of grace, elegance.., and dedication to craft -- the village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, near Epernay, yes an amazing part of France where Nicolas Francois Billecart met Elisabeth Salmon and married… Together with a love for this beautiful terroir (the environment in which wine is produced -- the whole environment, soil, air, climate.., and even a little magic), they embarked on a journey, that began in 1818 and still continues to WOW.., even the most staunch of critics.

“Too much of anything is bad,
but too much Champagne is just right.” Mark Twain

Only choosing the best grapes to go into their extremely secretive wine-making process and using all the old world charm, combined with modern technology… Billecart Salmon has been revered and honored by some of the most prestigious wine makers world wide. Their 1959 and 1961 vintages were awarded "Champange of the Millennium" going up against the best of the best: Dom Perignon, Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, etc., etc…

And to put your mind at ease.., and to let you know I'm mot completely talking about of my butt -- I was the Head Bartender of Flute Champagne Bar, the oldest champagne bar in New York City. And not being such a big fan of champagne, the job was quite a challenge… But, of all the champagne I was forced to drink (it was job) Billecart Salmon Brut Rose was easily my favorite -- and I am not a fan, by any means of any pink wine or champagne.., but Billecart Salmon is in a league of their own.

“Champagne! In victory one deserves it,
in defeat one needs it.” Napoleon Bonaparte

BILLECART SALMON BRUT ROSE MAGNUM (non-vintage)

Grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier

Tasting Notes:

This extremely well structured champagne, with it's very fine bubbles and it's bright but pale pink color, sparkles with hints of gold shining through… The appearance of this champagne sets the mood for what could be a truly special event. The way it's bubbles rise slowly to the top, tickling the nose, let you know --you are about to experience tradition at it's best!

• The Nose (aroma): red fruits are star, think wild strawberries, cherries, some pear and a hint of citrus.

• The Palate (texture): luscious and creamy.., but still light on the tongue… With flavors of honeysuckle, mandarin, a touch -- just a touch of anise, more red fruit with a feeling of richness.

• The Finish: unbelievable mouthwatering acidity, due to the highly secretive vinification process… Crisp and fresh with unmistakeable flavor of raspberry. This long and tight finish is both dry and elegant -- almost royal (actually it is royal).
  
  

  Food Pairing: Excellent with some smoked salmon and other light fish dishes, oysters. Hard aged cheeses and even goat cheese.

Cost: $169 (magnum - 1.5 liters)

As you know, premium champagnes can cost an arm and a leg… Especially, when you get into vintages (the year). But Billecart is just so special.., and made by such loving and dedicated people (still managed by family -- very rare) a vintage is not required -- and neither is the hefty price tag.

Easily the benchmark in rose champagne.., or as the Billecart's say -- Champagne Rose (even sounds elegant), sommeliers worldwide would not disagree with anything in this review. It is regarded as one of the finest champagnes being produced today.., and has a huge cult following. Being secretive and mysterious just adds to the character of this precious tradition. Enjoy the holidays -- CHEERS!

“Give priority to quality, strive for excellence” -- François Roland-Billecart

The quote above this photo is the motto of the Billecart family.., handed down through generations.., and how they approach everything that has to do with producing only the highest quality champagnes on the market today!


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