Ch Juvenal Ribes du Vallat BLANC 23
| Availability: | In stock |
| Delivery time: | Same day Pickup |
Château Juvenal is a name that frequently graces the pages of this newsletter and for excellent reasons. Their wines consistently deliver exceptional quality and offer remarkable value that's pretty much impossible to match.
My connection with Château Juvenal goes back to one of my earliest wine-sourcing journeys in France. It was among the first estates I visited, and the warmth and passion of the two families who own the vineyard left a lasting impression on me. I still recall walking through their sun-drenched vineyards, the scent of wild herbs in the air, and discussing their vision for sustainable viticulture over a rustic lunch under the shade of olive trees.
Over the years, I've developed a deep appreciation for their wines and their unwavering commitment to their craft and love of the land. Every bottle they produce reflects their dedication to organic farming, traditional winemaking techniques, and a profound respect for the terroir of Ventoux.
Ribes du Vallat Blanc is crafted from grapes nurtured on south-facing slopes of clay and limestone soils. Their certified organic vineyards are meticulously tended, with each parcel receiving individual love from bud break to harvest.
Like many of the region's vignerons, this parcel-by-parcel approach allows them to focus on the unique qualities of each varietal and vineyard site. This strategy works like a charm for the Ribes du Vallat Blanc; the Clairette brings freshness and elegance, while the Viognier adds aromatic richness and subtle floral notes.
The story behind the name "Ribes du Vallat" adds another layer of charm to this wine. As owner Bernard Forestier explains:
"The name Ribes du Vallat pays homage to the specific plots where our vines flourish, situated along the gentle banks—'ribes' in the Provençal dialect—that border the natural riverbed, or 'vallat,' meandering through the heart of our estate. In the spring, this area transforms into a canvas of lush greenery, attracting painters from afar who come to capture its myriad shades on their easels. Our vineyards benefit from excellent exposure and drainage, nestled among pine trees, Provençal cypresses, green oaks, Mediterranean scrubland, and olive trees. It's a little corner of paradise that imbues our wines with a unique character."
In your glass, you're greeted with inviting aromas of ripe stone fruits and citrus zest, gracefully accented by hints of white flowers and a delicate whisper of garrigue. The subtle minerality on the nose translates seamlessly to the palate, offering balance and counterpoint to the wine's pure and concentrated fruit flavors. Vibrant notes of peach, apricot, and lemon unfold as it warms in the glass, leading to an extended, refreshing finish with shadows of honeysuckle and a touch of almond.
This white gem sums up everything I love about Château Juvenal and is a textbook example of a wine made with integrity and authenticity. It's super versatile with food and will go great with a multitude of cuisines. Try it with grilled seafood drizzled with olive oil and a fresh goat cheese salad, or enjoy it alongside your favorite Mediterranean tapas. Whether shared among friends at a dinner table or sipped and savored quietly at the end of the day, Ribes du Vallat Blanc offers a hyper-genuine taste of the Provençal terroir.