Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Roussanne, Bourboulenc & Picpoul
75cl * Vegan & Sustainable * 14.0% ABV * Châteauneuf-du Pape, France
Domaine Chante Cigale, located within the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the Rhône Valley, has been owned by the Sabon Favier family for several generations. Recently Christian Favier released the reins to his son Alexandre who is fast becoming a new rising star of Chateauneuf. Despite only being in his early 20's he has been lauded by notable journalists Steve Danzier in the US and Jancis Robinson.
The soils of the vineyard are made up of clay and chalk, covered with a layer of the classic large pebbles ('galets') found in this area, which naturally keeps yields low. The vines are over 45 years old and situated near the plateau de Carbieres. Harvesting is by hand, with selective sorting of the grapes.
A stylish white with inviting warm, spicy aromas. The full-flavoured palate suggests poached pears and white peaches and a long, lifted finish. Try with red mullet and baked aubergine, or alongside any Provencal and Mediterranean cuisine.
You can drink this wine now (and it's best served between 12°C-14°C if you do) alongside fuller flavoured pork or chicken dishes and rich seafood starters, however it also has a good 10 years in it as ageing potential.