Launched in 2009, and the top cuvee from the Champagne-House Billecart-Salmon, the Clos Saint- Hilaire 1998 is a unique Blanc de Noirs (i.e. it is made entirely from Pinot Noir grapes), which bears the name of the patron saint of the town of Mareuil-sur-Ay near Epernay in France.

The one-hectare  vineyard has always belonged to the House’s family and responds to the most stringent norms: a single, unbroken and enclosed plot with a complete vinification installation in situ. Its vines, planted and pampered since 1964, have developed all the qualities of the best crus.

The magic of the soil added to human skills has produced an exceptionally pure wine sourced exclusively from Pinot Noir. To enable this great wine to mature in typical single cru style, the House chooses to add very little dosage.

This cuvee, hallmarked by chalk and its alluvial soil, stands out for the complexity of its aromas. The Clos Saint-Hilaire 1998 is characterised by the depth of the grilled, empyreumatic aromas (dried fruits, toasted bread), softened by notes of ripened quince and orchard fruit. The palate offers a powerful and tactile dimension in an impressive and noble manner, with the rare density and structure of a beautiful year.

Expect to pay from £285.00 (75cl bottle).