Domaine des Ardoisieres : Argile 2016

An Organic White Wine with Generous Aromas and a Polished Acidity

Located in the region of Savoie near the French-Swiss border, Domaine des Ardoisieres expands over 17 acres planted with vines. The vineyard is believed to have first been planted during Roman times and was cleared in 1998. Champagne native Brice Omont has been in charge of winemaking at the domain since 2005, and is considered one of the most exciting winemakers in France. The vineyards of Domaine des Ardoisieres are located on steep, rocky slopes in the commune of Saint-Pierre-de-Soucy and are managed with biodynamic practices. The Argile Blanc by Domaine des Ardoisieres is produced from a blend of 40% Jacquere, 40% Chardonnay and 20% Mondeuse Blanche, sourced from a vineyard certified organic by ECOCERT in the appellation of IGP Vin des Allobroges. The vines enjoy west-facing exposure and grow in a soil of schist, clay and ardoise (a hard, black schist native to the region). Only native yeasts were used in the producetion of this wine. Around one-third of the fruit was fermented in barriques of 2-3 previous uses, while two-thirds was vinified in stainless steel tanks. The wine matured for 8 months and was lightly filtered before bottling.

In the glass, the Argile Blanc 2016 from Domaine des Ardoisieres displays a beautifully bright yellow color. The nose opens with generous aromas of white fruits (peaches), along with subtle notes of citrus and pine. The entry in the mouth of this organic white wine is quite bright and fresh, revealing flavors of honey and almond on the palate, along with a polished acidity, splendid minerality and generous length, full of freshness. A great white wine and a fabulous value for the price.