Pinot Noir, 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,” literally the “farmhouse of the knight’s lady,” the Laroche winery in southern France that was created by Michel Laroche. Surrounded by a wall, just like the “clos” enclosures in Burgundy, Mas La Chevalière is a place of history and character where the “jardins à la française” offer a Mediterranean accent.
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Vineyard Profile
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2021 was a vintage that kept the promises of producing a satisfying state of the crop, despite a particular year. This vintage has been marked by spring frost, resulting in significant disparities among plots and a decrease in the harvest volume. The summer months recorded moderate temperatures, without excessive heat during the day, with mild cool nights. The harvest began on August 18th, which is considered a slightly later ripening period of the grapes in comparison to previous vintages. The first juices immediately unveiled great acidity and a high aromatic profile, which was confirmed during the winemaking process.
- Viticulture: “Lutte raisonnée,” or “reasoned protection,” (using chemical intervention only when required); cordon pruning, fruit thinning and high trellising in the vineyards
- Size: 30 hectares (74.13 acre)
- Vine Age: 20 years old
- Density: 4,000 vines per hectare (1,600 vines per acre)
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Vintage Report
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2021 was a vintage that kept the promises of producing a satisfying state of the crop, despite a particular year. This vintage has been marked by spring frost, resulting in significant disparities among plots and a decrease in the harvest volume. The summer months recorded moderate temperatures, without excessive heat during the day, with mild cool nights. The harvest began on August 18th, which is considered a slightly later ripening period of the grapes in comparison to previous vintages. The first juices immediately unveiled great acidity and a high aromatic profile, which was confirmed during the winemaking process.
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Vinification
- Fermentation: 12 days at 26° to 28°C (78° to 82°F) in stainless-steel tanks with daily pump overs to increase skin contact and aerate the wine
- Malolactic: 100% MLF
- Aging: 6 months in stainless steel, no barrel aging
- Filtration: Bottled with minimum filtration to preserve the natural character of the wine
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
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Tasting Notes
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Bright ruby color. Ripe and pulpy cherry aroma on the nose. Juicy mouthfeel combined with supple, velvety tannins.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy it with salt crust baked chicken, stuffed mushrooms or soft cheese.
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