Billecart Salmon, Cuvee Louis Blanc de Blancs

Billecart Salmon, Cuvee Louis Blanc de BlancsThe 2006 Brut Cuve Louis Salmon is a fabulous Champagne that balances the natural richness of the year with tons of energy. In this very warm vintage the winemaking team opted to block most of the malolactic fermentation (70%) to preserve freshness, an approach that worked beautifully. The weight of the year is present, but it is balanced by the wine's freshness and energy. Time in the glass brings out hints of chamomile, marzipan and lemon confit. At

bilberry and light estuarine scents that gently waft from the glass

finishing with mineral and tobacco elements

power and weight yet no heaviness as the acid/fruit balance is impeccable

These wines from Roberto and Davide Voerzio represent a significant turning point stylistically

The 2017 Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir shows considerable intensity and length

with finely grained

An exuberantly spicy nose features additional aromas of black cherry

minerally and bone dry finish that displays distinct citrus mineral nuances

Hints of oak toast don’t materially detract from the otherwise wonderfully fresh and cool aromas of green apple

Both were superb

25 grams per liter

grainy backbone of very ripe tannins and tons of vivacity