# Billecart-Salmon Brut Sous Bois (NV)

- **Producer:** Billecart-Salmon
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €95
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** pear, lemon, peach, apple, red cherry, grapefruit, red plum, apricot, brioche, vanilla, pastry, biscuit, chocolate, smoke, cedar, cloves, caramel, honey, hazelnut, almond, dried apricot

## About this wine

Billecart-Salmon Sous Bois is a Non-Vintage Brut Champagne from the Champagne AOC in France. Its defining characteristic is its complete vinification and aging in oak barrels, a process referred to as 'Sous Bois' or 'under wood'. This method is relatively uncommon in Champagne production and contributes to the wine's distinctive profile. The blend comprises equal proportions of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, sourced from Premier and Grand Cru vineyards. Billecart-Salmon, founded in 1818, is a family-run house with a long-standing commitment to quality and tradition.

## Interesting facts

- 'Sous Bois' means 'under wood', referring to its oak barrel vinification.
- It's a rare technique for Champagne, offering a richer profile.
- The house has been family-run for over 200 years.
- Grapes are sourced from Premier and Grand Cru vineyards.

## Food pairing

The wine's oak influence and medium-plus body complement richer dishes. Its vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of fats and proteins, while subtle nutty and toasty notes from the oak echo flavors in dishes like roasted poultry or brown butter seafood.

## Wine making process

Billecart-Salmon Sous Bois is produced using a distinctive method where all grapes are fermented and aged in oak barrels. This 'Sous Bois' process is central to the wine's character. Following fermentation, the wine rests on its lees for an extended period, typically five to seven years, which contributes to its texture and complexity. The blend incorporates a significant proportion of reserve wines, ranging from 26% to 40%, with some dating back to 2006, adding further depth and consistency. The house adheres to sustainable viticulture practices and holds 'High Environmental Value' certification.