Famille Fabre Grande Courtade L'Instant Rare Chardonnay

Description

Situated in the south where it is sunny and warm, the vineyards of Grande Courtade are situated in a unique amphitheater and enjoy a rare soil type from a dried-up marsh dating back to the Middle Ages. The soils in the vineyards are mixed. The clay in the soil gives their whites the minerality they need, and the sand layer is brilliant for quality rosé. The winery is old, it dates back to the 16th century and the vats used at the winery are the original from this time and still in use. Farmhouses surround the stone tower that is home to local doves. The winery was originally built by Fabre family ancestors. The diversity of the soils gives way to the traditional varietals grown in the region and due to climate change some new additions have been added to the mix: Alicante-Bouschet, Malbec, and Alvarinho. The vineyards are located at an altitude of 30 meters and the hillside sites are influenced by the temperate sea mists and the Mediterranean climate. The vines are 10 years of age and are located on a range of soils that are marl and rolled pebbles. The harvest is completed at night to retain the freshness of grapes and they are pressed gently and slowly to extract flavour carefully. 20% of the juice is left to age on its lees for six months in barrels. The rest of the juice is fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel tanks. Because of the lees contact this wine retains a light toast edge that blankets white flowers and dried citrus fruit. Long and complex with a fullness to the palate and a balanced acidity.

Pairing

Grilled fish and prawn salad with fresh greens in a honey dijon dressing, aged firm cheeses, or rigatoni pasta cooked in a cream sauce with pork sausage and garlic.