H. Billiot, "Cuvee Laetitia"

The NV Brut Cuvée Laetitia is terrific, especially in the way it balances energy with the richness of Ambonnay. The addition of reserve wines back to 1983 adds considerable nuance and complexity. Lemon oil, white flowers, mint, crushed rocks and a whole range of Chardonnay inflections add brightness to a core of Pinot fruit. This is a fabulous edition of the Laetitia.

Billiot is the fourth generation to estate bottle Champagnes at this Domaine in the Grand Cru Village of Ambonnay. Her Great Grandfather Louis Billiot bottled small amounts of Champagne, but it was his son and Laetitia’s Grandfather Henri that created this estate today. Laetitia’s father Serge took over in 1954 quickly establishing himself as a top producer, producing a range of wines from his Grand Cru holdings in Ambonnay. Today, Laetitia continues the tradition, working 5 hectares in Ambonnay. Of the 18 parcels that Billiot works, all but one of them are mid slope, in the most desirable sections of this famous village. “Billiot’s wines are packed with plenty of flavor, yet at their best, they combine their depth with a rare elegance and harmony that sets them apart from many of their peers.” -Peter Liem