Les Challeys white
Appellation
White Saint-Joseph
• The vineyard stretches from Chavanay in the north, to Guilherand in the south, over about fifty kilometers along the right bank of the Rhône : it covers 23 "communes" in the Ardèche, and 3 in the Loire.
• The soils are light and stony, with schist and gneiss over a granite base.
• The climate is moderately continental, with hot and dry summers, and regular rainfalls the rest of the year.
• Exposure : south and south-east.
• History : the wines were reputed in the 16th century for their delicacy, and were drunk at the table of the kings of France. It was the Jesuits (a monk community) of Tournon who gave the area its current name, in the 17th century. Between 1956 and 1969, this section of what used to be called Côtes du Rhône was re-arranged under the appellation Saint-Joseph.
• Production area : 1,005 hectares, for an annual crop of 36,000 hectoliters (400,000 cases). Authorized maximum yield is 40 hectoliters/hectare.
Characteristic
• This cuvee is the result of a blend of wines from the terroirs of Sainte-Epine, Tournon and Vion.
• Average production : 15,000 bottles (75 cl.) per year.
• Grape varieties : 80% Marsanne, 20% Roussanne.
Wine making
After hand-picking, the grapes travel to the winery in small boxes. Gentle pressing produces a must that is fermented at low temperatures (16°C/61°F) in closed tanks. This makes the most of the complex aromas of the Marsanne and Roussanne varieties.
Ageing
After malolactic fermentation the wine is racked and then matures on its fine lees in order to improve richness and structure while keeping its exceptional varietal aromas. Bottling takes place around mid-April after light filtering.
Tasting
A brilliant, green gold colour. The nose shows very pure floral aromas that mingle with citrus and preserved fruit. On the palate, the wine has similar flavours, with an added touch of honey. It finishes clean and clear, with flavours of flowers and fresh almonds.
Harmony between wine and food
Small river games, steamed fishes in sauce, chicken on fruits (apricots, peaches,...), any kind of cooked paste cheeses.
No recommended products at the moment.
