Varietals: 33% Grenache Blanc, 35% Clairette, 30% ViognierTasting Notes: Great summer white blend with perfect balance of acid and fruit. The Grenache blanc contributes to the body and aromas of pear, the Viognier lends itself to the beautiful flower notes, and the Clairette kicks in with high acidity.
Body: medium
Color: straw yellow
Aromas: delicate aromas of honeysuckle, fresh pear, and citrus framed with clean acidity
The Castle Beauchène dates back to the XVIII century and the family Bernard dates back its history in the area even longer. They started wine making here in 1794. The property from that time belongs to the family to day. Michel Bernard took over in 1971 and in 1984 he bought Chateau Beauchene and made it the center of winemaking. The Bernard family has lived in Orange since the 17th century. Originally tenant farmers, the Bernards were to profit from the social upheavals of the French Revolution, buying their first vineyard soon after the conflict in 1794. This vineyard is still present nowadays.
The vineyard is located in Valreas (northern part of the Cotes du Rhone appellation), and used to be the property of the popes. Fruit harvested before over-maturation for better complexity and freshness. Short fermentation (one week), temperature-controlled to avoid the excess of hard tannins, before malolactic fermentation. Each grape is vinified separately. Ageing in stainless tank for a few month. Bottling in late Spring.Eat with: sautéed Alaskan halibut, yukon potato purée, leek confit & crawfish-brandy reduction
