The 2009 Billecart-Salmon Les Clos Saint Hilaire is a rare single-vineyard prestige Champagne produced exclusively from Pinot Noir grown within the historic Clos Saint-Hilaire vineyard in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, in France’s Champagne region. Made only in exceptional vintages, this cuvée reflects the individuality of the site alongside the precision and restraint of the Billecart-Salmon house style. The warm and generous 2009 vintage contributes additional richness and concentration, while extended maturation has brought complexity and balance to the wine. The nose is layered and expressive, showing aromas of baked apple, preserved citrus and ripe stone fruit alongside toasted brioche, roasted hazelnut, spice and fine chalky minerality.
On the palate, it is powerful yet composed, with a fine, persistent mousse and vibrant acidity that maintains freshness and structure throughout. Flavours of lemon curd, poached pear and subtle red orchard fruits are supported by savoury pastry notes, almond complexity and delicate smoky nuances developed through extended lees ageing. The texture is broad and creamy while remaining focused and mineral-driven, reflecting the depth of Pinot Noir from this exceptional vineyard site. The finish is long, dry and layered, carrying lingering notes of brioche, spice and saline minerality that continue to unfold in the glass.
Ben’s Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is an outstanding collector’s Champagne for customers seeking a mature, vineyard-focused prestige cuvée with concentration, structure and long-term ageing potential. The 2009 vintage offers generosity while retaining precision, making it enjoyable now while continuing to evolve over the next 10–15 years. Best served well chilled with lobster, roast quail, truffle dishes, aged hard cheeses or refined seafood cuisine.
