If you are looking for a special champagne to crack open
this Easter, it has to be Billecart- Salmon’s latest cuvée, Brut Sous Bois (£65).
Using the three traditional grape varieties, chardonnay,
pinot noir and pinot meunier, the champagne house, in blending this unique
golden-yellow liquid, has recreated the original method that was used to
produce champagnes. Being entirely vinified and matured in oak gives the wine
superb body and structure. Sous Bois literally means “under wood”.
This is a lively fizz that is rich and powerful, yet has
extraordinary finesse. It is well-balanced and has a delicious creamy texture
that is bursting with fruity flavours tinged with brioche and toffee that
linger long on the palate. It works well with seafood and poultry.
Another winner from Billecart-Salmon but, to be honest, I
wouldn’t have expected anything less from a house that is renowned for its sophisticated
and elegant champagnes.
By Daralyn Danns
