# Solessence Extra Brut (NV)

- **Producer:** J.M. Sélèque
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €44
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blossom, apple, pear, peach, toast, brioche, butter, almond, hazelnut

## About this wine

Champagne J.M. Sélèque is a celebrated grower producer located in Pierry, near Épernay. Third-generation winemaker Jean-Marc Sélèque took over the estate in 2008 and converted viticulture toward sustainable and biodynamic methods. Solessence is the benchmark entry point for the estate, named after the treble clef ('clé de sol') to honor the family's deep musical roots. The grapes are sourced across 45 distinct micro-parcels in seven key villages, mirroring the exact varietal composition planted across the estate.

## Interesting facts

- The name Solessence references the treble clef ('clé de sol') in honor of the Sélèque family's musical roots.
- Fruit for this cuvée is gathered from 45 distinct micro-parcels across seven Champagne villages.
- The wine incorporates a perpetual reserve system that makes up 50% of the total blend.

## Food pairing

The electric acidity and bone-dry Extra Brut style cut effortlessly through rich or raw seafood, while the partial oak maturation and perpetual reserve complexity provide enough body to match light poultry, delicate veal, and aged hard cheeses.

## Wine making process

Grapes are sourced from 40-year-old vines and gently processed using whole-cluster gravity pressing. Fermentation occurs 60% in stainless steel vats and 40% in oak barrels without fining or filtration. The blend incorporates 50% perpetual reserve wine stored in oak and steel. After bottling, the wine undergoes secondary fermentation and spends a minimum of 24 months maturing sur lie in the cellar before receiving a minimal Extra Brut dosage of 1.5 to 2.0 grams per liter.