Mont-Redon Reserve Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2023

Mont-Redon Reserve Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2023 is a distinguished white wine from the Côtes du Rhône region in France, produced by the esteemed Château Mont-Redon estate. Established in 1344, Château Mont-Redon is one of the oldest wine-producing estates in France, renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition.

The 2022 vintage is a blend of 80% Viognier, 10% Grenache Blanc, and 10% Clairette. The grapes were whole-bunch pressed and cool-fermented in stainless steel, without malolactic conversion, to preserve freshness and aromatic intensity. The wine was then matured on fine lees for a few months before bottling, enhancing its texture and complexity.

Château Mont-Redon, established in 1344, is one of the most respected estates in the Rhône Valley, known for its benchmark Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Beyond their famous reds, Mont-Redon crafts elegant and expressive white wines, including their Réserve Côtes du Rhône Blanc. This cuvée showcases the estate’s ability to highlight the freshness and aromatic complexity of Rhône white varietals, offering a beautifully balanced and food-friendly wine.

The vineyards for this wine benefit from a Mediterranean climate and diverse soils, including limestone and clay, which are ideal for cultivating white grapes. The 2023 blend is predominantly Viognier, complemented by Grenache Blanc and Roussanne. The grapes are gently pressed as whole clusters, with fermentation conducted at cool temperatures to preserve the vibrant aromatics. Ageing on fine lees in stainless steel tanks enhances texture and complexity while maintaining the wine’s crisp, refreshing character.

Appearance: Pale straw yellow with a slight golden hue, bright and clear in the glass. The wine has a lovely sheen, with medium viscosity forming delicate, slow-moving legs when swirled, hinting at its richness.

Aroma: Expressive and layered, with enticing notes of apricot, white peach, and ripe pear. Floral hints of honeysuckle and acacia mingle with subtle herbal touches, alongside a delicate mineral character that adds depth.

Taste: Medium-bodied and beautifully textured, with a vibrant core of juicy stone fruits balanced by fresh citrus and a fine minerality. A gentle roundness from the lees ageing gives the palate a smooth, almost creamy feel, while the bright acidity keeps it lively and refreshing.

Finish: Crisp and lingering, with lasting impressions of white fruit, floral notes, and a touch of citrus zest, leaving a clean and elegant aftertaste.

Food Pairing:
Grilled scallops with lemon butter, where the wine’s acidity and stone fruit notes enhance the natural sweetness of the seafood.
Roast chicken with thyme and garlic, as the wine’s freshness and subtle complexity complement the savoury, herbaceous elements of the dish.