Val Des Rois
Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2023
This complex and layered white wine comes from a single vineyard called La Lance at the northern border of Valréas. It is especially influenced by the mistral, which keeps things cold in the certified organic vineyard. As a blend of Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Viognier, and Bourboulenc, this wine has an aromatic nose of citrus, exotic fruits, and white flowers. The creamy palate leads to a mouthwatering finish.
Vineyard
The vines in La Lance are about 55 years old and grow on soils that are a mix of limestone and clay. The vineyard is especially cold, and sits at 1,300 feet.
Winemaking
Grapes are de-stemmed and pressed and then cold settling. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks at low temperatures to protect from oxidation. The wine is aged for 6 months in stainless steel before bottling.
Vintage
2023 was a strong vintage in the Southern Rhone. It stayed cool through the first few months of the year but warmed progressively through the spring and into the summer. There were some drought concerns early in the vintage, but rain eventually came.
Tasting Note
Intense aromas of citrus, tropical fruit and white flowers leap from the glass. There is a richness on the palate that is balanced by striking acidity, like a ripe piece of stone fruit.
Color
White
Other Wines by this Producer
Côtes du Rhône Le Petit Roy
Val des Rois’ calling card for red wines is to omit the use of oak, preferring the freshness and vitality of concrete. Le Petit Roy is a blend of equal parts Syrah and Grenache, giving it a uniquely high level of Syrah for the appellation. The wine has a garnet color with aromas of black cherry, blueberry and chocolate. There is a great balance between freshness and power with finessed tannins.
Côtes du Rhône Allards
Les Allards is named after the area between Valréas and Vinsobres and is produced without SO2 (“sans soufre” in French). While most Rhône wines are blends, this Côtes du Rhône is made entirely from nearly 100-year-old Grenache vines. The absence of oak keeps the wine light and airy. Bright, brambly berry fruit mingles with herbal garrigue notes on this inviting nose. The palate is driven by fresh, crunchy red and blue fruit. Only 650 cases are made each year.
