Horiot "Solera"

Grapes: Arbane, Petit Meslier, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Meunier

Region: Les Riceys, Cote des Bar, Champagne, France

Vintage: NV

Viticulture: Biodynamic

Soils: Clay + Limestone

Yeasts: Native

Vinification: Rather than blending particular years, wine is added to the top of a system of gravity fed barrels. This creates a hint of nutty oxidation, spice and a little savory mushroom-ness. The solera was started in 2003, so this has over 15 years worth of wine in it.

Aging: Aged 2 years in bottle

Fining or Filtering: Disgorged

Dosage: 0 g/l

Notes from the Importer: Following in his grandfather and father’s footsteps, Olivier is the third generation to pursue viticulture. They primarily sold their fruit to the local cave coopérative until 1999, when Olivier decided he wanted to vinify his own wines. The Horiots farm a total of seven hectares but keep just two hectares. 

No fewer than seven grape varieties make up this cuvée, including mainly Pinot Noir, some Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Meunier and Arbane, one of Champagne’s traditional grapes. This Champagne is produced using the famous solera method, which is heavily inspired by Andalusian sherry production. On tasting, this remarkable wine reveals an attractive golden appearance and a bouquet releasing complex, evolving notes of yellow fruit, white-fleshed fruit and tertiary notes (almonds). Full bodied and supple, it has a long finish featuring extremely indulgent notes. A truly great wine produced from seven varieties, requiring several years' keeping; it can be served at the table with flavoursome dishes. This wine will improve with a few years of ageing.