Roussanne Vieilles Vignes

Area of production
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, between Orange and Avignon. The Chateau de Beaucastel white "Vieilles Vignes" (old vines) is 3 hectares / 7 acres in size. In this case the old vines are at least 75 years old.

Geology
Miocene marine molasses overlaid with alpine diluvium (formed by round pebbles – or "galets").

Grape varieties
Roussanne 100%

Vinification
Hand-picked and collected in baskets, grapes sorted, pneumatic pressing and clarification of the must. Fermentation takes place 50% in barrels and 50% in stainless steel vats.

Maturing
Following malo-lactic fermentation, maturation for eight months, with 50% in oak barrels and 50% in vats, prior to bottling.

Tasting notes
Colour: pale yellow.
Nose: acacia flowers, honey.
Palate: very rich, honeyed.

A wine of exceptional complexity and balance, it should approach its peak in five to six years.

To serve
Serve lightly chilled at 12 to 14 °C /50 to 55 °F in a good tasting glass.