Founded in 1818 in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Billecart-Salmon is one of Champagne's most respected family-owned houses, now in its seventh generation. Established by Nicolas François Billecart and Élisabeth Salmon, the maison has earned an international reputation for producing Champagnes of exceptional finesse, precision and longevity. Its philosophy centres on meticulous vineyard selection, gentle juice extraction and low-temperature fermentation to preserve purity and elegance.

Introduced in the late 1990s, Brut Sous Bois ("under wood") was created as a tribute to Champagne's traditional barrel-fermentation methods. Unlike the house's Brut Réserve, this cuvée is fermented entirely in small, seasoned oak barrels, allowing the oak to enhance texture and complexity without imparting overt woody flavours. The wine is a blend of the three classic Champagne varieties—Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier—with a significant proportion of reserve wines, before extended ageing on the lees and a low Brut dosage. It is regarded as one of Billecart-Salmon's most gastronomic Champagnes.

Brut Sous Bois is typically composed of approximately one-third Chardonnay, one-third Pinot Noir and one-third Pinot Meunier, sourced from selected vineyards across Champagne. Vinification and maturation take place in old oak barrels, adding depth and texture while preserving freshness and terroir expression. Extended lees ageing contributes further complexity and an exceptionally fine mousse.

The wine is pale gold with persistent, fine bubbles. The bouquet combines ripe apple, pear, citrus zest and white peach with aromas of toasted brioche, roasted hazelnut, vanilla, buttered pastry and delicate spice. On the palate it is rich yet remarkably precise, offering creamy texture balanced by vibrant acidity and chalky minerality. Layers of orchard fruit, lemon, almond and subtle oak spice lead to a long, saline and refined finish. The style is elegant rather than oxidative, with the barrel ageing providing texture and complexity instead of dominant oak flavours.

" Fermented in wood with a touch of spice and toast on the palate, this Champagne is beautifully textured and structured. The Chardonnay gives the wine a steely edge that suggests the bottling could age. " -- Wine Enthusiast