St. Joseph Blanc Lyseras

Origin : south/southeast-facing vines on the hillsides in the commune of Chavanay. Lyseras is not a district but the cuvée brand. Soil : sandy, granitic. Grape Variety : marsanne and roussanne. Viticulture : high-density planting (8,000-10,000 vines per hectare). No insecticides or pesticides, few treatments (depending on weather), small amount of organic-only fertiliser, with respect of soil and vine balance. Vigour and yield control, leaf-thinning and green harvesting to promote grape maturation. Vinification : the grapes are hand-picked; then sorted and pressed in the cellar. Alcoholic and malolactic fermented in barriques with native yeasts. Maturing : 9 months in barriques, on the lees, no racking, regular stirring. Style : luscious, deliciously fruity and flattering. An agreeable nose of stone fruits and acacia honey notes. Fleshy and fruity on the palate. Nicely pitched between fresh and rounded. Fresh finish. Aging : drink “on the fruit” up to 3-4 years. Pairing : serve at 12-14°C, fish (e.g. cod en papillote with cherry tomatoes and fresh verbena).