Solemme, Nature de Solemme, Blanc de Blancs, Champagne, France, 2016

Producer Profile

Olivier Langlais was born into the world of Champagne but it took him a while to find his place.

He inherited prime land in the Montagne de Reims area but he also inherited his father’s position as head of the local cooperative, a small body made up of 5 vignerons, created during the uncertain post-war years. The commercial life was not for him and he felt like a fish out of water, so he gave it up to devote his time to his vines. He took over from his father in 2006 and began the long process of building Solemme: 6 hectares of Premier Cru vines grown organically (certified since 2018) and tended meticulously using very precise biodynamic practices. Keen to get back to nature, Olivier constantly seeks to improve the cultivation techniques to give back to the soil and promote the harmony of the vine with its natural environment.

Viticulture

Nature de Solemme is a 100% Chardonnay Premier Cru champagne from the western Montagne de Reims. It is an invitation to explore and rediscover the elegance of old vine Chardonnay. The fruit is picked slightly later to ensure optimal ripeness, but the lack of dosage allows the invigorating citrus notes of the varietal to shine.

Winemaking

Fermented in stainless steel tanks, ageing on lees until bottling in April. Matured in bottle, on the lees for 36 months.

Oak Ageing

No oak ageing

Tasting Note

Pale, luminous and glorious Blanc de Blancs, aged on the lees for 36 months. Grapes are organically grown and exclusively from Premier Cru Chardonnay from the Montage de Reims. A fruit and terroir driven Champagne, with the quality of the fruit enhanced by the fine lace of bubbles and its crisp citrus, chalky stone fruit minerality on the finish.

Food Matching

Perfect with oysters and seafood, or serve as an aperitif.