Champagne Billecart-Salmon Named Official Champagne of USA Fencing

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — If you've ever thought fencing and fine Champagne have a lot in common (precision, tradition and the satisfying pop of a perfectly timed touch, for example), you're about to feel very validated.

USA Fencing has partnered with Champagne Billecart-Salmon, naming the historic French house as the Official Champagne of USA Fencing. Under the agreement, Billecart-Salmon will supply USA Fencing events, receptions and related gatherings, including the U.S. Fencing Foundation Gala on May 28 in New York City and the Hall of Fame Dinner on June 30 in Portland, Ore.

"Billecart-Salmon represents exactly the kind of partner we want associated with our sport. They’re a family-built institution defined by precision, heritage and an unwavering commitment to craft," said Phil Andrews, CEO of USA Fencing. "And, just as importantly, I can personally attest that they make some of the finest Champagne on the planet"

So who is Billecart-Salmon? Founded in 1818 in the village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in France's Champagne region, the house has remained in the hands of the same family for seven consecutive generations. It produces approximately 2 million bottles per year and is renowned for pioneering cold fermentation techniques and for its Brut Rosé, widely regarded as the gold standard for Champagne rosé worldwide. Billecart-Salmon is ranked No. 1 among the Trending Brands by Drinks International and is the No. 2 best-selling brand.

The partnership marks Billecart-Salmon's first formal sports sponsorship in the United States — and it chose fencing. We like to think that says something about our sport.

The announcement is the latest addition to USA Fencing's growing roster of partnerships, which includes Macron, Range and Dwight Global Online School. The organization also operates the 1896 Wine Club in collaboration with Bonner Fine Wines, so if you're a member who appreciates a good pour, you're in excellent company.