A house with an incredible story, Champagne Salon was originally founded by a man who was focused on making his own champagne, rather than adapting to the style of the times. Aimé Salon sought to showcase a single cru from the the Côte de Blancs known as le Mesnil-sur-Oger from purely Chardonnay, based from one single vintage, with no blending whatsoever. At the time this was quite revolutionary.
Le Mesnil is one of the famed vineyards in the world, centrally located in the Côte des Blancs. The site is known for its chalky soils and walking through the caves of Salon last week you can literally touch the terroir which really gives you a feel for what they seek to accomplish in this one of a kind wine. The Grand Cru Le Mesnil vineyard is entirely planted to Chardonnay and its vines create one of the great expressions of the varietal in the world. Salon was initially born in 1911 with their first vintage from 1905. Over time there was a massive response in trying to purchase these one of a kind champagnes.
Salon was led by Champagne pioneer, Aimé Salon, until his death in 1943, Salon was left to his nephew who continued to build the brand. In 1988, Champagne Laurent-Perrier became the majority shareholder of Champagne Salon. Today, the house of Salon, along with its ancient neighbor and sister, Champagne Delamotte (the fifth oldest Champagne house, founded in 1760) are led by Didier Depond.
The new release wine is the 2012 Salon ’Blanc de Blancs Le Mesnil’ Champagne (OB, 99) which quite simply borders on perfection. The length and gratifying weight of this wine really speak to this vintage, as this is really nowhere near ready and will surely satisfy for many decades to come. Learn more about this famed champagne house at https://www.salondelamotte.com/ and here is my review of the new 2012 Salon Champagne.
2012 Salon ‘Blanc de Blancs Le Mesnil’ Champagne- The 2012 Salon ‘Blanc de Blancs Le Mesnil’ Champagne is a masterpiece from this great vintage. Entirely sourced from the ‘Le Mesnil’ vineyard in the Cotes de Blancs, this unveils Cardamom dusted brioche, green apple with brandy soaked pear and nectarine rind which all seamlessly combine aromatically. The heady aromatics bring you back to the glass for more hedonistic enjoyment. The mouthfeel is soft and elegant with silky tannins that frame this brilliantly stony and salty wine. Wait for the minute-long finish that won’t quit. Elegant, yet showing the richness of the vintage, this stunning champagne can really benefit from an hour in the decanter if enjoying now. Drink 2024-2050- 99