Cuvée „5 Sens“ Brut Nature 2019

Wine Description for Cuvée „5 Sens“ Brut Nature 2019 by Olivier Horiot

Character

Olivier Horiot belongs to those Champagne producers who deliberately distance themselves from convention. His Cuvée „5 Sens“ is a Brut Nature – completely without dosage, meaning no added sweetness after disgorging. This demands perfect grape material and precise winemaking, for here there is nothing to mask imbalances. The rare assemblage of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and the almost forgotten Arbanne variety makes this Champagne a rarity that honours the historical diversity of Champagne.

Terroir & Origin

Horiot manages his vineyards in Les Riceys in the far south of Champagne, on the border with Burgundy. This region, renowned for its rare Rosé des Riceys, produces wines of particular depth and structure. The Kimmeridge chalk soils and the more continental climate give the wines their own identity – more mineral, earthier, sometimes more rustic than the classic Champagnes from Reims or Épernay. Horiot works according to biodynamic principles and allows the terroir maximum expression.

Grape Variety & Winemaking

The Arbanne, one of seven permitted but nearly extinct Champagne varieties, brings floral notes and finesse to the cuvée. The Pinot Blanc contributes structure and body, whilst the Chardonnay provides elegance and freshness. As a vintage Champagne from 2019, this wine bears the signature of a specific year. Winemaking is carried out with minimal intervention, often in neutral vessels, so as not to obscure the fruit and terroir. The absence of dosage demands the drinker’s attention – here purity takes precedence over palatability.

Food Pairing Suggestions

A Champagne for the table, not merely as an aperitif. Perfect with raw fish, oysters or scallops. The structure and minerality harmonise beautifully with aged Comté, goat’s cheese or smoked trout. Also an intriguing choice with mushroom dishes or light poultry.