Montsable Reserve Chardonnay, Languedoc, France

94 points - Montsablé Réserve Chardonnay 2021 ‘Elegant, silken-textured wine that reminds me of Chablis but with softer acidity. Saline/oyster shell, grapefruit, vanilla, and nicely integrated spicy oak. Good concentration. Accessible now but no rush.’: Bob Campbell MW

Country: France Region:  Languedoc

Varietal: Chardonnay

Vintage: 2021 Colour: White Style: Dry

Producer: Terres Fideles

Description:

Montsablé Réserve represents the pinnacle of site selection within the Haute Vallée de l’Aude, the coolest of all the Mediterranean regions of France due to altitude and influence of the cool Atlantic wind, the Vent Cers. Altitude, climate and limestone rich soils combine to produce outstanding fruit, with which we create wines of elegance and freshness. The specific Haute Vallée sites are perfect for Chardonnay due to slower ripening and better levels of acidity. The vines are 20-30 years old and grow on Argilo Calcaires soils.

Time in Oak: 6 months; Type: French; % oaked: 30; % new oak: None

Ageing Potential: 5 Years

Tasting Note:

The floral aromas and white peach flavours are complemented by vanilla, toasty notes, a lovely creamy texture and mineral tones through to a classy finish.

Food Matches: Ideal with richly flavoured fish dishes, langoustines, lobster, trout or salmon, rich enough to handle creamy sauces.