Domaine de la Cavaliere - 'Marcelino' - Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache Blanc - Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, FR - 2023

Notes from the Winery/Importer

Grape Varieties: 80% Sauvignon Blanc, 20% Grenache Blanc. Name Origin: "Vin Blanc" simply means "white wine." "Marcelino" is a proprietary name for this specific bottling, likely chosen to reflect its unique character or to honor a specific inspiration. This blend highlights the aromatic zest of Sauvignon Blanc balanced by the textural richness of Grenache Blanc, creating a distinctive Provençal white. Vintage Notes (2023 Provence - White Wines): The 2023 vintage in Provence presented a mixed bag of challenges and successes. A cool spring and a hot summer with periods of drought characterized the growing season. However, well-timed rains at the end of August helped replenish grapes and promote phenolic ripeness. For white wines, particularly those harvested in mid-August (and potentially later for some parcels), the vintage resulted in wines that tend to be balanced in terms of acidity and alcohol, with notes of exotic or yellow-fleshed fruit, and a saline finish. Producers like Domaine de la Cavalière, with their meticulous vineyard practices, would have aimed to capture freshness and aromatic purity despite the warmer conditions. Vinification: Domaine de la Cavalière applies its rigorous natural winemaking principles to "Marcelino." The Sauvignon Blanc and Grenache Blanc grapes are hand-harvested. Alcoholic fermentation occurs spontaneously with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged in stainless steel tanks to preserve its fresh fruit character, crisp acidity, and delicate aromatics, without any influence from oak. Critically, the wine undergoes no clarification or filtration, and only a homeopathic dose of SO2 is added at bottling, ensuring a truly natural and expressive wine. Appearance: The wine displays a bright, luminous pale lemon-yellow color, often with greenish reflections, indicative of a youthful, unoaked white wine. It is clear and brilliant in the glass. Nose: The aromatic profile is powerful and expressive, showcasing a harmonious blend of the two grape varieties. Dominant aromas of ripe passionfruit, grapefruit, and exotic fruits (like pineapple or mango) from the Sauvignon Blanc are prominent. These are beautifully intertwined with a creamy, floral character (like violet or white flowers) and hints of coconut from the Grenache Blanc, adding softness and complexity. A fresh, almost saline minerality might also be perceived. Palate: On the palate, the wine is dry, medium-bodied, and beautifully balanced, offering a rich yet harmonious experience. It presents a beautiful volume and a tender, rich texture that coats the palate. The acidity is present and well-integrated, providing freshness without being overtly sharp. The tannins are imperceptible. Flavors mirror the nose with a delicious interplay of exotic fruits, citrus, and a creamy, coconut note. The wine is full of charm and a lovely aromatic framework, evolving towards a precise, complex, and smooth finish. Body: Medium-bodied. Finish: Long, balanced, and harmonious, with lingering notes of exotic fruit, coconut, and a delicate floral character. Food Pairing Suggestions: This expressive white wine is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a range of dishes. It makes a superb aperitif. It pairs beautifully with salads, risotto, and white meats. Consider it with grilled fish, shellfish (especially scallops or prawns), poultry dishes with creamy sauces, goat cheese, or even lighter Asian-inspired cuisine that benefits from its aromatic intensity and roundness. Potential for Aging: The 2023 Domaine de la Cavalière Vin Blanc "Marcelino" is crafted for youthful enjoyment, emphasizing its fresh aromatics and harmonious character. While its balanced acidity provides good structure, it is best consumed within 2-4 years of its vintage (until 2026-2028) to appreciate its vibrant fruit and aromatic complexity. It is not typically intended for extended cellaring.

Notes on the Producer

Producer Background: Domaine de la Cavalière is nestled at 320 meters altitude in Lourmarin, Provence, France, between the Rhône and Provence regions. The domaine is committed to a holistic, sustainable, and organic approach to viticulture, aiming to create a polycultural haven. Clément Mengus oversees the winemaking and general management of the estate. He and the team tend to the vineyards with meticulous care, harvesting all grapes by hand to preserve their integrity. In the cellar, their philosophy is strictly natural: spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts, no chemical yeasts, enzymes, or other harmful winemaking products. They bottle their wines without clarification or filtration, adding only a homeopathic dose of SO2, ensuring a pure and authentic reflection of their terroir.