Billecart Salmon Champagne Cuvée Nicolas Francois Grand Cru Brut Flaschengärung 2008 Magnum

Jancis Robinson: Lovely precision and drive to this with aromas of lemon curd, brioche, praline, apricots, pomelos, mandarin zest and salted caramel. It’s held together by a sharp, citrusy backbone of acidity, balanced with a fine, silky mousse. Both structure and softness here. Citrus fruit brightness on a beautifully elegant and seamless finish. 60% pinot noir and 40% chardonnay. 150 months on lees. 2.9g/L dosage. 97/100 (2023)

Parker: Originating from a late September harvest in a cool, late-ripening season and disgorged in January 2022 with a dosage of 2.9 grams per liter, the 2008 Nicolas François is showing superbly. It opens with an aromatic array of lemon oil, quince, nashi pear and honeysuckle, segueing into a medium-bodied and chiseled yet layered palate. A crisp core of fruit deftly cloaks the vintage’s brisk acidity, avoiding the taut austerity that the year can occasionally impart. Long and penetrating, animated by a pinpoint mousse, the wine’s aromatic promise translates seamlessly from nose to palate. It comes warmly recommended and will continue to deliver considerable pleasure for years to come. Produced from 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, with malolactic fermentation largely blocked, it enhances the vintage’s refreshing profile. 96/100 (2026)

Wine Enthusiast: A blend of fruit from mainly Grand Cru vineyards, this beautiful Champagne is now fully mature. With toasty characters, touches of fresher fruit and taut acidity, the wine has a little spice from wood fermentation. It is a great Champagne ready to drink. 97/100 (2023)