“La Chevalière,” or “the knight’s lady,” is a reference to “Mas La Chevalière” which is literally the “farmhouse of the knight’s lady,” the Laroche winery in southern France where this wine is produced.

Minervois, Béziers, Agde, Bédarieux, Montpellier, Nîmes: encompassing both the western and eastern Languedoc regions. A wide range of origins to build complexity in the wine. All areas are under maritime influence which provides cooler, fresher conditions. Vineyard orientation is to the west and northwest. The soil is varied, with clay and limestone predominant.

The 2017 vintage is surprising. Weather conditions were unusual: frost in winter, good amount of rain in spring and a very dry summer. These conditions moved the harvests 7 to 10 days earlier, giving a lower yield in comparison with the previous years. Yet, quality is here. The harvested berries showed a nice balance between sugar and acidity, and the must presented a complex and lovely aromatic structure. White wines are fresh and elegant; Shiraz and Grenache have a gorgeous potential. 2017 is as great as 2010!

Supervised at the property of origin by the Laroche team; whole bunches crushed in pneumatic press, then 24 hours settling at 12°C to 15°C (53°F to 59°F) to allow the aromas to be absorbed into the must.

Appearance: Clear pale straw color
Aroma: Strong citrusy aromas on the nose, with yellow-fruit richness
Taste: Bright flavors of ripe fruit; good balance and aromatic finish