Champagne, Billecart-Salmon “Le Clos Saint Hilaire” Brut 2005

From a plot next to the Salmon family’s house in Mareuil-Sur-Aÿ that was originally envisioned as a garden and playground for children’s enjoyment. Eventually the family realized the potential of the terroir, and with their winery next door it was only natural to plant some Pinot Noir vines. The first vintage was 1995, and the 1999 was one of my seminal moments with wine. Clos Saint Hilaire displays all the range of Champagne. Despite its mere 1 gram of dosage, its flavors are beguilingly rich and bakeshop-like. Finessed, detailed, impossibly long. A real treat.

Must be 21 years old to purchase. ID is required at delivery or in-store pickup.