Billecart-Salmon Extra Brut Champagne Les Rendez-vous No. 2 NV

94 points Anne Krebiehl, MW (Falstaff): "Fragrant Red Delicious apple scents the creamy but super-fresh nose. A delicious frisson of white pepper swings along. The palate is slender, yet well-proportioned, with all the creaminess and none of the heft of Pinot Noir. The autolysis shows itself like a particularly peppery sourdough rye bread. There is a heart of brightness, of light-footed elegance, this is a ballerina, in a fruity, spicy costume. Delicious and individual. (8/8/21)"

94 points James Suckling: "This has a deep, attractive nose of baked apples, spiced pears, plums, chamomile, pomelo peel and pastries. Hints of anise and walnuts. It’s medium-to full-bodied with vibrant acidity and a soft mousse. Caressing and round, yet delicate. Very fresh and pure fruit with subtly bitter cocoa and anise character at the end. 100% pinot noir. 78% base wine from 2014, with reserve wines from 2012. 2g/L dosage. 6 years on lees, disgorged December 2020. Drink now. (7/18/22)

92 points Yohan Castaing (Decanter): "This is 100% Pinot Noir, from the villages of Ambonnay and Verzenay in the Montagne de Reims from the 2014 vintage, with 22% of reserve wine from the 2012 vintage. Vinified entirely in stainless steel tanks. With a slight hint of butter, the bouquet appears fresh and pastry. With time, aromas of dried herbs, violet, citrus, pear and peach emerge from the glass. Very chalky palate with bright acidity, a chalky finish and a perfectly balanced structure. Not powerful, but layered and elegant. Perfect as an aperitif. Dosage: 2g/L. Drinking Window: 2022-2024. (Dec 2021)"

Producer notes: "This second rendez-vous reveals the identity of a pure Pinot Noir from exceptional terroirs. Our second stop is the two historic terroirs of the Montagne de Reims: Ambonnay and Verzenay, where the Pinot Noir varietal imprints a distinctive identity in the wine. This is a careful selection process based on the purity of the fruit, the balance of flavors and a low dosage. Appearance: A distinctive sparkling golden hue and a glistening stream of fine bubbles. Aroma: A beautiful aroma with floral sensations (cherry blossom and violet) with hints of biscuit, a touch of honey and raw butter. The citrus zest and juiciness of this wine will awaken you senses. A highly delicate blend where the character of the Pinot Noir subtly reveals its terroirs’ DNA. Palate: A generous textured and tactile mouthfeel with intense fruity notes of candied lemon paste, tangerine and licorice. The mid-palate evolves towards a chalky and slightly peppery tastes. The finish highlights a refreshing minerality with tangy flavours of fresh raspberries."