Precision and purity define this terroir-focused release from one of Champagne's most respected maisons. Billecart-Salmon Les Rendez-vous N°2 Pinot Noir Extra-Brut NV is the second chapter in the house's experimental Les Rendez-vous series, crafted entirely from Pinot Noir sourced from the grand cru villages of Ambonnay and Verzenay on the Montagne de Reims. Vinified in stainless steel to preserve the integrity of the fruit, the wine was aged on lees for 65 months before release at a dosage of just 2g/l, with 22% reserve wines from 2012 adding complexity to the 2014 base vintage.
In the glass, this Extra-Brut reveals a wine of real textural generosity balanced by crisp mineral tension. The Pinot Noir speaks clearly of its south-facing chalk terroir, delivering candied citrus, tangerine and liquorice alongside cherry blossom, violet and a touch of raw butter. The mid-palate takes on a chalky, faintly peppery character before resolving into a bright, mineral finish lifted by fresh raspberry. Fine, persistent bubbles carry the wine's detail and elegance through to a long, dry close. Despite its richness, the low dosage keeps everything focused and precise. Built for the table, it pairs beautifully with ceviche, Gambero Rosso prawns or crab with a light iodine cream sauce, and has the structure to cellar comfortably for up to five years.
Precision and purity define this terroir-focused release from one of Champagne's most respected maisons. Billecart-Salmon Les Rendez-vous N°2 Pinot Noir Extra-Brut NV is the second chapter in the house's experimental Les Rendez-vous series, crafted entirely from Pinot Noir sourced from the grand cru villages of Ambonnay and Verzenay on the Montagne de Reims. Vinified in stainless steel to preserve the integrity of the fruit, the wine was aged on lees for 65 months before release at a dosage of just 2g/l, with 22% reserve wines from 2012 adding complexity to the 2014 base vintage.
In the glass, this Extra-Brut reveals a wine of real textural generosity balanced by crisp mineral tension. The Pinot Noir speaks clearly of its south-facing chalk terroir, delivering candied citrus, tangerine and liquorice alongside cherry blossom, violet and a touch of raw butter. The mid-palate takes on a chalky, faintly peppery character before resolving into a bright, mineral finish lifted by fresh raspberry. Fine, persistent bubbles carry the wine's detail and elegance through to a long, dry close. Despite its richness, the low dosage keeps everything focused and precise. Built for the table, it pairs beautifully with ceviche, Gambero Rosso prawns or crab with a light iodine cream sauce, and has the structure to cellar comfortably for up to five years.
"A focused and finely detailed Champagne with notes of raspberries, red apples, dried flowers and brioche. Medium-bodied with fine bubbles and bright acidity. Elegant texture with a precise, mineral finish."
— James Suckling, 93 points, 2024
"This finely tuned Pinot Noir Champagne offers fragrant red berry fruit, lively acidity and delicate autolytic notes, finishing with impressive precision and persistence."
— Antonio Galloni, Vinous, 92 points, 2024
Billecart-Salmon Champagne has been a symbol of elegance and craftsmanship for over two centuries. Founded in 1818 by Nicolas François Billecart and his wife, Elisabeth Salmon, this family-owned House has remained steadfast in its commitment to producing exceptional Champagne, guided by a legacy of quality, innovation, and tradition. Today, the House is managed by the Billecart family across seven generations, each dedicated to upholding the values instilled by its founders. With a focus on the meticulous care of its 100-hectare estate, alongside sourcing grapes from 300 hectares spread across 40 crus in the Champagne region, Billecart-Salmon continues to craft wines that express the very essence of their terroir.
At the heart of Billecart-Salmon’s philosophy lies an unwavering dedication to quality. The House prides itself on producing wines that reflect the authenticity of their origin while embracing modern techniques that enhance their natural beauty. Billecart-Salmon is committed to a meticulous approach to winemaking, one that combines traditional methods with cutting-edge technology. This includes a cru-by-cru and grape variety-by-grape variety vinification process, which ensures the preservation of the unique characteristics of each vineyard and grape. The House’s focus on cold settling and fermentation in small, temperature-controlled vats allows for the slow extraction of delicate aromas and the purest expression of fruit. With a focus on balance, elegance, and harmony, Billecart-Salmon creates Champagnes that are both timeless and modern, a true reflection of the House’s dedication to excellence.
Tasting notes
NOSE
Expressive and finely detailed
Aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry and red apple layered with citrus zest, white flowers and subtle brioche notes.
PALATE
Energetic and textured
Fine mousse supports flavours of red berries, orchard fruit and citrus with chalky minerality and vibrant acidity.
FINISH
Dry and persistent
A savoury, mineral-driven finish with lingering red fruit freshness and delicate spice.