Les Volets Chardonnay

Les Volets Chardonnay – A Classic Expression of French Elegance

Les Volets Chardonnay is a refined, elegant white wine from the heart of the Languedoc-Roussillon region in southern France. Known for its balanced and expressive character, this wine offers a delightful experience for both seasoned wine enthusiasts and those new to the charm of French Chardonnay. With a combination of ripe fruit flavors, crisp acidity, and subtle oak influence, it showcases the best of what Chardonnay can offer.

The wine presents a clear, pale gold hue in the glass, hinting at its freshness and vibrant profile. On the nose, Les Volets Chardonnay greets with inviting aromas of ripe stone fruits, such as peach and apricot, complemented by citrus notes of lemon and a touch of green apple. A subtle hint of floral undertones rounds out the bouquet, making it wonderfully fragrant.

On the palate, this Chardonnay is medium-bodied with a smooth, round mouthfeel. The bright, fresh fruit flavors of apple, pear, and citrus mingle with a slight creaminess, thanks to the well-integrated touch of oak. The wine’s refreshing acidity provides balance, ensuring it’s not overly rich while maintaining a clean, crisp finish. The oak aging imparts a delicate toasty complexity, adding depth without overwhelming the fruit, making the wine both vibrant and nuanced.

Les Volets Chardonnay is an excellent choice for a wide range of occasions and dishes. Its versatility makes it a fantastic partner for seafood, particularly shellfish, grilled fish, or creamy seafood pasta. It also pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, creamy cheeses, or light salads. Whether served at a summer gathering, as a pre-dinner aperitif, or as an accompaniment to a formal dinner, this Chardonnay enhances any setting with its elegance and finesse.

Perfectly capturing the spirit of the Languedoc region, Les Volets Chardonnay is a wonderful expression of French winemaking, offering quality and consistency at an accessible price point. It’s a must-try for those looking to explore the finesse of French Chardonnay.

Production

Pinched between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean is the Haute Vallée de L’Aude. The traditional ‘noble’ grape varieties of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir have a natural affinity here. Both varieties benefit from the warm climate combined with high altitude, allowing for slower and longer ripening of the grapes. These ideal growing conditions gives this wine concentrated fruit yet refreshing acidity. Made from mostly hand-picked grapes, 20% has been vinified in old oak, imparting texture and body.

Tasting Notes

Bright acidity gives way to green apple and brioche notes. Older oak barrels have added texture and given a toasted hazlenut twist. For those looking for a high quality Chardonnay, this punches well above its weight. An ideal match with baked chicken with a creamy sauce, wild mushroom risotto or pasta with clams in white wine.