Chardonnay, IGP Pays d’Oc — 2021
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Introduction
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“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.
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Vineyard Profile
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This cuvee is a blend from several cooler plots in the Languedoc. The most substantial volume is from Limoux, a well adapted area close to Pyrenees, and North of Gard where the vines are located above 200m of altitude.
- Viticulture: "Lutte raisonnée,” or “reasoned protection,” (using chemical intervention only when required); primarily cordon pruning with fruit thinning and high trellising in the vineyards.
- Size: Purchased grapes from vineyard partners; estimated 80 hectares (198 acres) total; vineyard size varies based on source and location
- Vine Age: 15 -25 years
- Density: 4,000 vines/hectare (1,619 vines per acre)
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Vintage Report
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2021 is a vintage that keeps the promises of the very satisfying sanitary state of the crop, despite a particular year. This vintage has been marked by the spring frost, resulting in significant disparities among plots and a decrease of the harvest volume. The summer had moderate temperatures, without excessive heat during the day and with cool nights. The harvest began at the right time on August 18. These conditions contributed to a slightly later ripening of the grapes than previous vintages, with a significant heterogeneity in terms of plots, but perfectly controlled thanks to a daily follow-up. The first juices immediately unveiled good acidity and a high potential aromatic profile, which was confirmed during the winemaking process.
- Harvest Date(s): Mid-August
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Vinification
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12 days of fermentation at 15°C (59°F) in stainless-steel tanks
- Malolactic: None
- Aging: 6 months in stainless-steel tanks, no barrel aging
- Filtration: Minimum filtration to preserve maximum natural character of the wine; then bottled under low pressure on a bottling line designed to protect quality.
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
- Alcohol: 12.5%
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Tasting Notes
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Clear pale straw color. Pungent citrussy aromas on the nose with yellow fruit richness. Bright flavors, ripe fruit in mouth. Good balance and aromatic finish.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy it as an aperitif or with seafood, crayfish, Japanese food and goat cheese.
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