Cuvée “Métisse” Noirs & Blancs L17 Brut Nature NV

Metisse is a cuvée of two grape varieties and eight plots. All of them are located around Riceys sur Marnes. The soil structure of clay and Kimmeridgien limestone is typical of the area. Pinot Noir is represented with about 80%, Pinot Blanc complements this assemblage. The 2017 vintage is represented with 80 - 85% and clearly dominates Metisse. This is complemented by reserve wines, which are matured in barrels similar to a solera - called Reserve Perpétuelle. The base wines are aged in wooden barrels and mature on their lees. The wine was bottled on 24 July 2018. After almost three years, Métisse was finally disgorged on 8 June 2021 and delights us with 0g/l dosage.

Sparkling golden yellow, very fine perlage and dense mousseux

Metisse by Olivier Horiot is a guarantee for high quality and a very good price-pleasure ratio. At the same time, Olivier Horiot remains true to his style. Consistently dry and puristic. The variant based on the 2017 vintage lives from clear, straightforward nuances on the nose. Stoniness, minerality and minimalism. It shows its origin unvarnished. Mirabelle plums, apricots and lemons have a restrained effect on the taster. The fruit is not at all present. Its finesse, paired with a light smokiness clearly dominate. Some quince tart and buttered brioche. Maritime notes, such as fresh seaweed and oyster shell go perfectly with it. Kaffir lime leaves and Thai basil round it off successfully.

It presents itself on the palate with a lot of tension. It fulfils exactly the expectations gained from the nose. Its straightforward chalky minerality clearly characterises it. Salty and with citrus elements. This works phenomenally together. Cool, positively rustic and rugged. I like this very much Champagne without make-up. The aromas of the nose come through in a similar way. Very good length and the palate has a clear minerality with a very good astringency. This is cleansing and massively boosts the drinking flow.