Olivier Horiot champagne des Copains N°2

OLIVIER HORIOT CHAMPAGNE DES COPAINS Nº2

Champagne des Copains Nº2 is one of the most exciting new projects from Olivier Horiot, an initiative that reflects his commitment to the small-scale growers of Les Riceys and to a style of Champagne rooted in its terroir, respectful viticulture and accessibility. This Blanc de Noirs is made exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes sourced from vineyards farmed and certified under organic and biodynamic practices. It aims to bring the distinctive character of this remarkable corner of Champagne to a wider audience, without compromising the standards and sensitivity of one of the region’s most respected producers.

PHILOSOPHY

Champagne des Copains was created around a simple yet ambitious idea: to produce accessible Champagnes that allow more wine lovers to discover the identity of Les Riceys. The project brings together young local vignerons who, despite not yet enjoying widespread international recognition, share a respectful approach to vineyard management and a strong connection to their surroundings.

Olivier Horiot is the driving force behind the initiative and oversees production at his own winery, blending grapes from his vineyards with fruit supplied by these young growers. This collaborative approach gives local talent a platform and demonstrates that the character of an outstanding wine-growing area can be expressed in Champagnes designed to be enjoyed without the need for premium prices.

VINIFICATION AND VINTAGE

Champagne des Copains Nº2 is a Blanc de Noirs made from 100% Pinot Noir. The grapes come exclusively from vineyards farmed and certified under organic and biodynamic practices, a defining feature of this cuvée within the project’s original range.

Fermentation and ageing take place in stainless steel tanks, a choice intended to preserve the wine’s fruit expression, freshness and vibrancy. Under Olivier Horiot’s supervision, the blend brings together the identity of the participating vineyards with a precise interpretation of the character of Les Riceys.

VINEYARDS AND GRAPE VARIETY

Les Riceys occupies a distinctive position in Champagne, in the southernmost part of the region, where Pinot Noir finds particularly favourable conditions for expressing its character. In Champagne des Copains Nº2, this grape variety accounts for 100% of the blend, creating a Blanc de Noirs focused on fruit and a strong sense of origin.

The provenance of the grapes and the work of the young participating growers are central to understanding this cuvée. It showcases the potential of the region through a new generation of vignerons, guided by Olivier Horiot’s experience and expertise.

TASTING NOTES

A Blanc de Noirs designed to highlight the fruit expression and freshness of Pinot Noir. Fermentation and ageing in stainless steel tanks aim to preserve the wine’s vibrancy and offer a direct expression of the grape variety and its origin. The result is a Champagne that combines the accessible spirit of Champagne des Copains with the distinctive character of Les Riceys and Olivier Horiot’s winemaking sensibility.

FOOD PAIRING

An excellent choice for aperitifs, fine charcuterie, roast poultry, oven-baked fish and French cuisine. Its fresh, fruit-driven profile also makes it enjoyable on its own, as a Champagne to share with friends and celebrate special moments, in keeping with the spirit behind the project.

TECHNICAL SHEET

Producer: Olivier Horiot / Champagne des Copains

Origin: Les Riceys, Champagne, France

Style: Blanc de Noirs Champagne

Grape variety: 100% Pinot Noir

Viticulture: Certified organic and biodynamic

Fermentation and ageing: Stainless steel tanks

Winemaking: Produced under Olivier Horiot’s supervision, using grapes from his own vineyards and those of young local growers

Contains sulphites.