The Billecart-Salmon Le Sous Bois NV is a distinctive non-vintage Champagne from the family-owned Billecart-Salmon house in France’s Champagne region. Produced from a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, this cuvée differs from the house’s more linear styles through its use of oak barrel fermentation and maturation, which brings additional texture and savoury complexity to the wine. The nose reveals layered aromas of baked apple, citrus peel and stone fruit alongside notes of toasted hazelnut, warm brioche, vanilla spice and subtle smoky minerality.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with a fine mousse and a broader, more textured profile than traditional stainless-steel-aged Champagne. Flavours of poached pear, roasted nuts and lemon curd are supported by balanced acidity and gentle oak influence that adds depth without dominating the wine’s freshness. The extended lees ageing contributes creamy texture and complexity, while the finish remains dry, savoury and persistent with lingering pastry and mineral notes. The wine combines richness and structure while retaining the precision expected from Billecart-Salmon.
Ben’s Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is an excellent option for customers who enjoy more textural and oak-influenced Champagne styles with added depth and complexity. The balance between freshness and barrel character makes it highly versatile at the table and suitable for further development in bottle over the next 5–8 years. Best served well chilled with roast chicken, lobster, truffle pasta, mushroom risotto, aged Comté or grilled seafood dishes.
