François Villard : Version Longue 2023

Characteristics and tasting notes for the François Villard Saint-Péray "Version Longue" 2023

Tasting notes

Colour
The colour reveals a pale golden hue.

Nose
The nose opens with aromas of peach and citrus, particularly lemon, complemented by delicate white floral notes.

Palate
Full-bodied and rich, the palate offers a silky texture. It unfolds flavours of stone fruit, white peach and citrus, supported by touches of almond, sweet spices and a subtle hint of vanilla. The finish is persistent, carried by a lovely freshness.

Food and wine pairing

This white wine pairs perfectly with a crayfish gratin, roasted monkfish or boudin blanc. It also goes very well with light poultry, delicate seafood in cream sauce, as well as desserts such as a walnut cake glazed with caramel.

Service and storage

The 2023 vintage can be cellared until approximately 2038. Its optimal tasting window is between 2026 and 2031. For ideal storage, it is recommended to keep it lying down in a dark place, at a constant temperature of between 7 and 18°C and a humidity level of 50 to 80%.

Other characteristics

This dry wine has an alcohol content of 13.5%.

The elegance and richness of a white wine from the Rhône Valley

The estate

A former chef, François Villard founded his estate in 1989 with just four hectares of vines. Located in Saint-Michel-sur-Rhône, in the heart of the Rhône Valley, the estate has since grown to reach 40 hectares today. Still led by its founder, the estate stands out for its stylistic evolution towards more elegant wines with a lighter touch of oak. A committed advocate for the environment, the producer achieved organic certification for his entire vineyard in 2022, reflecting his dedication to sustainable viticulture.

The vineyard

The grapes come from the Saint-Péray appellation, located in the southern part of the estate. The vines, around 20 years old, are planted on steep hillsides made up of decomposed granite and clay soils. The vineyard is farmed according to organic principles, without synthetic chemical products, and the harvest is carried out exclusively by hand to ensure a rigorous selection of fruit.

The vintage

2023 allowed the grapes to reach optimal ripeness, offering natural balance without the need for chaptalization. Weather conditions favoured healthy berry development right through to harvest.

Winemaking and aging

As soon as they arrive at the winery, the grapes for the "Version Longue" cuvée are pressed directly. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in barrels using indigenous yeasts, followed by complete malolactic fermentation. The wine is then aged for approximately 18 months in French oak barrels aged three to five years. During this period, the wine rests on its fine lees without racking, with regular bâtonnage to encourage the development of its texture.

Grape variety

100% Marsanne.