Cuvée “Ailleurs” Brut Nature 2019

Wine Description for Cuvée “Ailleurs” Brut Nature 2019 by Olivier Horiot

Character

Olivier Horiot belongs to that new generation of Champagne producers who break radically with convention. His “Ailleurs” – French for “elsewhere” – is programmatic: a Brut Nature without any dosage whatsoever, which reveals the pure essence of Chardonnay. With just 12% alcohol, this Champagne displays a remarkable lightness and crystalline precision, qualities that have become rare in Champagne. Horiot works in the far south of Champagne, in Les Riceys on the Côte des Bar, a region with chalky Kimmeridge soils that recall Chablis rather than the chalk soils of Reims.

Terroir & Origin

The Côte des Bar lies geographically closer to Burgundy than to Épernay – and you can taste it. The cooler temperatures and distinctive soil composition impart a mineral tension and freshness that clearly distinguishes these wines from the more opulent Champagnes of the Montagne de Reims. Horiot manages his parcels organically and with minimal intervention, allowing the terroir to express itself unadorned. The 2019 vintage benefited from a warm, dry summer that produced healthy, concentrated grapes.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Pure Chardonnay, vinified like a still wine: spontaneous fermentation with natural yeasts, ageing in neutral barrels or stainless steel, no fining, no filtration. The second fermentation in the bottle occurs without the addition of sugar for dosage – a bold step that demands absolute purity and precision. Horiot is among the pioneers of the natural Champagne movement; his wines are statements against industrial uniformity.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The bone-dry character and mineral structure call for raw oysters, scallop carpaccio or sashimi. Also a brilliant choice with aged Comté or goat’s cheese. The acidity cuts effortlessly through pan-fried fish with butter or poultry in cream sauce.