Gascogny is a wine sub region in South West France, which is divded between Aquitaine and Midi-Pyrenees. The Southwest wine region covers several areas that produce excellent wines near the region of Bordeaux, which is farther inland. This could be one of the reasons that South West wines have such distinctive flavors. Some describe the vineyards as, “Islands,” although they do not connect. South West wine grapes make use of the upstream rivers, Dordogne and Garonne, as well as their tributaries. This is the same for the Northern Basque Country and the area of Gascony including Bearn. Armagnac is in Gascony and produces brandy. The soil is alluvial mixed with sand and clay. With its close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, although it is farther away behind Les Landes, Gascogny enjoys wet and sunny springs making it perfect for grape growing. Wines are usually purchased by the sub regions, and not the name. People tend to forgo the label, just to buy wine from a particular sub region such as Gascony. Tannat, Gros Mensang, and Petit Mensang grape varietals are grown in South West France.
Salette Cotes de Gascogne Blanc is made from 80% Colombard, 10% Ugni Blanc and 10% Gros Manseng.
Fresh, clean and lively with intense exotic fruit aromas. Crisp, clean and zesty in the mouth, it offers delicate flavors of citrus fruit and grapefruit, and a long lingering finish.
Enjoy as an aperitif or with grilled fish, shellfish and appetizers.
2020 VINTAGE: The harvest 2020 in Vaudevey started on September 1st. The harvest yields were impacted by drought, particularly for the certain plots that were well exposed to the sun. The ripening of the grapes was slow, which helped aromas to concentrate and acidity to be kept.
GRAPE VARIETY: 100% Chardonnay
VINEYARD: Domaine Laroche is one of only three proprietors in Premier Cru Les Vaudevey, owning 24.61 acres of the 102.13 acres premier cru vineyard. Planted on steep slopes of 30-50% at 640 to 771 feet with an eastern to southeastern exposure, the vines enjoy morning to early afternoon sun. The coolest valley of the Domaine Laroche vineyard—always the last one to be harvested.
VINE DENSITY: 5,880 vines per hectare (2,380 vines per acre); massal selection from Laroche old vines for the new plantings VITICULTURE: One man, one plot: There are more than 30 people who are dedicated to caring for the 90-plus hectares (222.39 acres) of Domaine Laroche vineyards, with each person responsible for only one plot. This tailor-made approach allows them to manage the vineyards with precision, speed and accuracy.
PRESSING: The grapes are harvested and sorted by hand. Whole bunches are pressed in a pneumatic press, and then the must settles for 12 hours at 10° C to 12°C (50° F to 54° F) in large vats.
FERMENTATION: The must ferments for 3 weeks, 74% in stainless steel vats and 26% in French oak barrels.
MATURATION: Nine months in 72% stainless steel tank, the rest in barrels. only 5% new oak in total. FILTRATION: Minimal filtration is used to preserve and maximize the natural character of the wine. ALCOHOL: 12% TASTING NOTES: Bright gold in color. Hints of minerality layered with citrus notes of lemon peel. Nervy, racy and lively. You can enjoy it by the glass, with oysters, seafood and smoked salmon. Also, pairs well with Asian food and light cheese.
Lima Granite Vinho Verde is made from 100 percent Loureiro.
This special project from the Adega Ponte de Lima highlights the diverse soils of the Vinho Verde region. Made from 100% Loureiro grapes, both the Granite and Schist varieties boast a crisp acidity and expressive minerality.
Lima Vinho Verde Granite displays intense floral aromas with great freshness and more accentuated minerality.
Sushi, fish, seafood, cheeses and salads.