Created in 1964 as a tribute to the founder of the House, "Cuvée Nicolas François" is Billecart-Salmon's flagship prestige vintage cuvée. It unites top Grand Cru Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims and the Grande Vallée de la Marne (such as Verzenay and Aÿ) with Grand Cru Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs.

The 2015 release highlights a vintage of exceptional phenolic ripeness and power. Partial vinification in oak barrels (approx. 15-20%) lends subtle micro-oxygenated structure and complexity, while extended aging on fine lees under natural cork (bouchage liège) yields an expansive autolytic richness. Finished with a precise Extra Brut dosage, it balances rich red berry weight with bright, chalky linear drive.

Critical Acclaim:

95 Points, James Suckling:

"An overt style of baked apples and stone fruit with vibrant lemons and chalk, as well as subtle brioche character. Medium-bodied, generous and large, showing fine mousse and crisp acidity. Tight yet focused with a toasty finish. Drink now."

95 Points, Vinous Media:

The 2015 Brut Cuvée Nicolas François Billecart is quite delicate and understated. Floral and savory notes meld into a core of lemon confit, sage, mint and dried flowers. Medium in body and vibrant, with terrific energy, the 2015 has a lot to offer. A trace of savory/slightly vegetal notes lurks beneath, but those flavors are not terribly intrusive; they are more like a strand in a fabric rather than an overpowering characteristic. Dosage is 5 grams per liter. Disgorged: July 2025.- Antonio Galloni 

Why You'll Love It

• The flagship prestige vintage release from Billecart-Salmon, celebrating nearly two centuries of winemaking heritage.
• A luxurious blend of Grand Cru Pinot Noir and Chardonnay offering remarkable power, elegance, and ageability.
• Complex aromatics of mirabelle plum, roasted nuts, honeyed pastry, dried cherries, and subtle wood spice.
• Exceptional structural weight on the palate backed by fine, creamy effervescence and chalky persistence.

How To Serve It

• Serve slightly warmer than most Champagne, between 50°F and 54°F, to allow its vinous power to shine.
• No decanting needed; allow it to evolve in the glass over 30 minutes.
• Pour into all-purpose white wine stems to concentrate its broad, autolytic bouquet.
• Pair with roasted poultry with truffle, seared duck breast, lobster thermidor, or aged hard cheeses.