We tasted: Salon 2007

Entering the fabulous universe of Champagne Salon means delving into the extraordinary life of Eugène-Aimé Salon, the mastermind behind this renowned champagne. Born in 1867 into a modest family in Pocancy, near Côte des Blancs, Eugène-Aimé Salon’s journey led him from the countryside to the bustling streets of Paris. There, he found success as a dealer of leather and furs, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the vibrant and modern metropolis of Paris, London, and New York.

Eugène-Aimé Salon was not only a successful businessman but also a man of refinement and social charm. His love for the good life and his affinity for champagne soon endeared him to the high society of the time. Captivated by the terroir of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger and his passion for champagne, Eugène-Aimé Salon embarked on a remarkable endeavour: the creation of a champagne that would embody his vision and taste. This venture bore fruit in the form of an unparalleled Blanc de Blancs, a pure expression of Chardonnay, crafted solely for his personal pleasure.

Initially, this exceptional champagne was reserved for his private enjoyment. However, as time passed and the echoes of World War I faded, Eugène-Aimé Salon’s circle of friends, captivated by the Blanc de Blancs, encouraged him to share his creation with a broader audience. Thus, in 1920, the illustrious house of Champagne Salon was founded to cater to this enthusiastic clientele.

The allure of Champagne Salon transcended boundaries, finding its place in the most glamorous establishments of the era. Maxim’s, a symbol of Les Années Folles, embraced it as its house champagne, further cementing its status. Eugène-Aimé Salon, a familiar presence in various social and political circles, ardently defended his beliefs about Europe and enjoyed membership in the esteemed ‘Club des Cents,’ an exclusive society of gourmets. His champagne became a coveted choice for all who sought the finest indulgences.

What set Champagne Salon apart was its pioneering approach producing an exclusive Chardonnay champagne. Prior to World War I, no champagne brand had ventured into the realm of single-variety wines. In this way, Eugène-Aimé Salon established himself as the pioneer of the Blanc de Blancs style, leaving an indelible mark on the world of champagne. The legacy of Eugène-Aimé Salon and Champagne Salon’s innovative Blanc de Blancs endures as a testament to a remarkable history and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

The Salon’s 2007 vintage stands out as a testament to the exceptional quality of its production. This unique champagne is crafted exclusively from grapes sourced primarily from the renowned “Le Jardin de Salon” plot, as well as 19 other plots, all of which thrive in the deep chalk soils of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger village.

The winemaking process is meticulous, with the grapes undergoing fermentation in stainless steel tanks. Subsequently, the champagne is left to mature on the lees for over 10 years, resulting in a truly exquisite creation. The Salon millésime 2007 boasts a remarkable blend of freshness, complexity, and an abundance of dried fruits, notably featuring hints of orange, lemon, dried grass, and subtle brioche notes.

Notably, this cuvée exhibits excellent minerality and leaves a fabulous aftertaste, making it a delightful choice for immediate enjoyment. Moreover, connoisseurs are encouraged to consider extended aging (10-20years+), as this champagne is poised to develop further complexity and reach its full plenitude with time.