Pinot Noir, Languedoc – 2022
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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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The 2022 vintage was very early with high temperatures, however slightly moderated by the proximity to the sea. No water stress thanks to the Spring rainfalls, with the exception of the young vines which were harvested earlier: on August 12th. The acidity levels decreasing as early as the first days of August, as well as the tasting of the berries with phenolic ripeness, confirmed a great aromatic potential and were all triggers to an early harvest.
- 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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The 2022 vintage was very early with high temperatures, however slightly moderated by the proximity to the sea. No water stress thanks to the Spring rainfalls, with the exception of the young vines which were harvested earlier: on August 12th. The acidity levels decrease as early as the first days of August, as well as the tasting of the berries with phenolic ripeness, confirmed a great aromatic potential, and were all triggers to an early harvest.
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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
- Alcohol: 12.5%
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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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