Solera Extra-Brut is one of Fabrice Pouillon’s most distinctive and intellectually compelling Champagnes. Created from a perpetual reserve established in 1997, this multi-vintage cuvée is designed to diminish the influence of any single harvest and place the character of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ firmly at the center of the wine.
The blend is composed of equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grown in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ. Pinot Noir contributes structure, depth, and vinous power, while Chardonnay brings freshness, lift, and finely defined acidity. Together, the two varieties create a Champagne of remarkable balance, complexity, and energy.
Each year, approximately 30% of the solera is drawn off for secondary fermentation and replaced with 30% wine from the new harvest. This continuous process allows numerous vintages to become seamlessly integrated, adding layers of maturity and complexity while preserving the freshness and vitality of the most recent wine.
From the creation of the solera through the addition of the 2010 vintage, the reserve was aged entirely in stainless steel. It is now maintained in upright oak vessels and undergoes full malolactic fermentation. This evolution in élevage contributes additional texture and dimension without obscuring the purity of the fruit or the mineral character of the terroir.
The result is an electric and terroir-driven Champagne with high-toned aromatics, fresh acidity, and exceptional length. It is light on its feet yet possesses remarkable depth and intensity, continuing to unfold with each sip.
The bouquet opens with aromas of orange zest, ripe pear, apple blossom, fennel seed, and warm brioche. Notes of steeped raspberry, whole-grain toast, honeycomb, spice, and a subtle hint of Timut pepper add further complexity.
On the palate, the wine is medium- to full-bodied, bright, and seamless. Its generous fruit and layered texture are balanced by tangy acidity and ample chalky extract. A fine, persistent mousse carries the flavors across the palate, while the Extra-Brut dosage keeps the finish dry, precise, and energetic.
Solera Extra-Brut is a gastronomic Champagne that combines mature complexity with remarkable freshness. Its depth and structure make it an excellent partner for oysters, lobster, roasted poultry, mushroom dishes, smoked fish, aged Comté, and other firm or nutty cheeses.
The Wine Advocate: 94 Points
It opens with aromas of orange zest, pear, fennel seeds, warm brioche, and a hint of Timut pepper. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, bright, and seamless, showing striking complexity. Ample chalky extract and tangy acidity define its structure, while the mousse remains persistent through the long finish.
Wine Spectator: 92 Points
An aromatic Champagne shaped by rapier-like acidity, with expressive flavors of steeped raspberry, whole-grain toast, apple blossom, and a touch of honeycomb.
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Producer: R. Pouillon & Fils
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Cuvée: Solera Extra-Brut
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Base: 1997-2018
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Country: France
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Region: Champagne
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Appellation: Vallée de la Marne
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Village: Mareuil-sur-Aÿ
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Grape Varieties: 50% Chardonnay and 50% Pinot Noir
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Production Method: Perpetual reserve established in 1997
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Annual Renewal: Approximately 30% drawn off and replaced with 30% wine from the new harvest
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Élevage: Initially aged in stainless steel; now maintained in upright oak vessels
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Malolactic Fermentation: Yes
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Style: Extra-Brut
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Wine Type: Multi-vintage Champagne
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Bottle Size: 750ml
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