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Billecart-Salmon Brut Blanc de Blancs 1996 (750ml)

Tasted in May, 2011

Back in 2004, I tasted a bottle of Billecart-Salmon Blanc de Blancs 1995, which fused together mountain-stream purity, lime-like refreshment and stony minerality. So I have been eagerly awaiting the encounter with Billecart BdB 96… Note that Billecart BdB 96 is released after the BdB 97, which further justifies my already-high-expectation for the BdB 96!

Luckily, this very healthy bottle of Billecart-Salmon Blanc de Blancs 96 does not let me down – indeed it is even more satisfying than I have expected.

Served upon uncorking.

Still youthful green gold. Impetuous, cheerful bubbling.

The first impression on the nose is white flowers, yes, white flowers for this 15-year-old Chardonnay with bubbles! Then the bouquet further blossom: mandarin, lemon, a merest hint of acacia honey, wet stone and pear.

The mouthfeel is exquisite yet thrilling, with fresh, delicious fruit (mandarin and lemon dominant, but also some yellow fruits), mouthwatering acidity and stony minerality in perfect harmony.

About 15 minutes after uncorking. Freshly poured. Intriguing bouquet of roasted almond and vanilla. The taste is filled with lush citrous fruit, well complemented by mineral elegance.

25 minutes after uncorking. Freshly poured. Lovely aromas of crushed chalk and cream. And the fruit is even more supple and caressing.

Sensual to enjoy now, but also fascinating to follow into the future – there is an abundance of delicious fruit to team up with the acidity and minerality for graceful ageing.

Following photos of Billecart Blanc de Blancs 1995 for comparison of the label: Billecart BdB 95 and 97 used the same old-fashioned label, then BdB 96 is released with new label design.