DOMAINE VALENSAC (Languedoc, France)
Chardonnay VDP d'Oc 2009
100% Sauvignon Blanc harvested and selected after careful vineyard management. Pneumatic pressing into stainless steel vats. Cool fermentations using selected yeasts. Bottled in spring after fine lees contact. SO2 added.
By far, this is the biggest estate that Savio buys his wines from, with 45ha in total planted vines. Domaine Valensac has been owned, for more than a century by the Lafon family within Herault in the Languedoc, who carefully cultivate a dozen or so varietals. One-third of the plantings are white, split between Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. A great benefit the family has had from this size is the varied soils types scattered among the hills. Sandy loam, gravels, argile and calcareous based rock all share the same address, and each shows its unique voice through their wine. The Lafons are wise enough to vinify each parcel separately, opting for steel tank or oak barrel for the proper application. The blending is essential in the end process, which is where the Lafons excel. The operation is large-scale and works from 3 air- conditioned cellars, one reserved solely for barrel ageing. The best of modern technology is on hand. This seems a step off the path for Savio Soares Selections but what it affords is high-quality, well-priced terrior styled whites from a region with diversity in both soils and microclimates. A breathe of different air in the more natural selections of SSS, but a delicious and refreshing one none the less.
100% Sauvignon Blanc harvested and selected after careful vineyard management. Pneumatic pressing into stainless steel vats. Cool fermentations using selected yeasts. Bottled in spring after fine lees contact. SO2 added.