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The 1999 Salon Le Mesnil Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne is a truly exceptional vintage, marking the 37th and final vintage of the 20th century for this iconic house. 【 Ultra-exclusive, produced only in great vintages from 100% Chardonnay from Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, with a minimum of 10 years on lees 】. The 1999 vintage was characterized by the most abundant grape harvest in Champagne's history and one of the warmest years of the century. Didier Depond, president of Salon, described the 1999 as "mature, rich and abundant," and the wine itself as "sophisticated" and "tamed". Salon is exclusively crafted from 100% Chardonnay grapes sourced from 19 vineyards in the Grand Cru village of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, and undergoes a minimum of 10 years of maturation in bottle on its lees. Fermentation occurs entirely in stainless steel, and malolactic fermentation is suppressed to preserve maximum freshness and longevity. Only about 50,000 bottles are produced, highlighting its rarity.
This Champagne presents a complex bouquet with faint fusil and quarry dust notes, alongside hints of hickory nut, almond, walnut, and toasted wheat. On the palate, it offers a polished and subtly creamy texture, with bright, juicy apple and lemon flavors, an uncanny sense of lift, and remarkable refinement. Expect youthful notes of chamomile and meadow flowers, evolving into brioche, white bread, white flowers, earth, and delicate yeast flavors. The finish is crystalline and lingering, with citrus undertones.
This exquisite Champagne is now entering its prime drinking window, with importers suggesting it can be enjoyed until 2050, and magnums even longer. It is perfect for grand celebrations, milestone anniversaries, or as a luxurious aperitif.
🍴 Food pairing suggestions: The 1999 Salon pairs beautifully with warm oysters and caviar, lightly cooked sea bass with truffle risotto, or sweetbreads with morel mushrooms. It also complements excellent Parma or Iberico ham, well-aged Parmesan cheese, or simply grilled almonds. Famously, it was launched with fish and chips, showcasing its versatility. Shellfish, crab, and lobster are also excellent choices.
🥂 Event suggestions: An unparalleled choice for a wedding, a significant birthday, a high-end corporate event, or a very special intimate dinner.