Delicate nose of chopped apples, apricots, raspberries, grapefruit, salted almonds and praline. Lovely freshness with salty and zesty undertones plus a hint of five spice. It’s medium-bodied with vibrant acidity and a gentle mousse. Somewhat understated with a soft yet tangy energy. 100% meunier. 70% base wine from 2015, with 30% reserve wine from 2013. 64 months on lees; disgorged November 2021 with 2g/L dosage. Drink now.

The Extra Brut No.3 is the third release of Billecart’s new Meunier Champagne from vineyards in Leuvrigny, Damery and Venteuil. Bold and savory, the No.3 is done in a richer, more vinous style than most of the house’s other Champagnes. It’s an approach that works so well with Meunier. Apricot, dried herbs, chamomile, sage, mint, tangerine peel and floral-infused honey all develop in the glass. There is a bit of edginess in the texture, which suggests less than ideal ripening for the base year and/or dosage that is a touch low. For that reason, I would prefer to drink this on the earlier side. Disgorged: September 24, 2020. (Drink between 2022-2028) - AG