Medium-plus gold color; citrus, white peach, apple, lemon, spices, vanilla, hint of oak, white flowers, minerals on the nose and palate.
Dry; silky tannins; reserved acidity. Full body; rich, smooth, slightly oily mouthfeel. Balanced, tasty, rounded fruitiness. Wine gracefully pleasures you with both fruit and mouthfeel. Blend of viognier, marsanne, and picquepoul; all certified organic. Some complexity; impressively extended finish, nice balance between freshness and body. 13.5% ABV
Château Montplaisir is located in Vinsobres in the heart of Provence. The winery embraces sustainable agriculture. Vineyards are managed without use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers. Grapes hand harvested and transported to the winery in small boxes to preserve quality. The 2022 vintage had its challenges with a dry winter followed by a warm spring, but things went right after that to promise a quality vintage, as reflected in this effort.
The château has a rich history. From the website: “Residence of the family of Merles des Rochettes, it was built in the late 17th c by Joseph Merles (1642-1709), Doctor of Law, Bailly de Grignan, Judge General in Valréas. Built with ashlar blocks from the quarries of the Gard, which are placed directly on a basement of saffre, the house features architecture inspired by the opulent houses of Avignon and the charm of Provencal houses. Standing with its back towards a forested hill, it overlooks the plain of Valréas. Facing west, it offers a beautiful 180° view on the Ardèche and the foothills of Massif Central.”
Château Montplaisir Éclats Côtes du Rhône Villages Blanc 2022 is impressive, harmonious, delicious blend of viognier, marsanne, with dollop of picquepoul (“stings the lip”). Tasty drinker with excellent mouthfeel, some complexity, and nicely extended finish. Pairing—fish, seafood: oysters, grilled fish, scallops, oven-roasted sea bream, seafood pasta with lemon and olive oil. Herb-roasted chicken, turkey with thyme, poultry in creamy sauces; creamy mushroom risotto. Summer salad with green apple, almonds, citrus vinaigrette dressing; grilled eggplant. Cheese—chèvre, ardèche goat cheese, Sainte-Maure de Tourine, picodon, pélardon, comté, bruyère. $14-18
