Appellation: Côtes du Rhône
Region: Southern Rhône
Country: France
Color: White
Varietal(s): Viognier, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne and Marsanne, Clairette and Bourboulenc
About The Producer
Scotsman Walter McKinlay purchased 40+ acres in Séguret in the Southern Rhone Valley, and today, under the direction of Kate McKinlay the Domaine is a leading estate whose wines define the region. Set in a secluded valley between the picturesque village of Séguret and Mont Ventoux, Domaine de Mourchon was created by the McKinlay family in 1998. The vineyard had some twenty hectares of mature vines but no facility to make wine, so they constructed a state-of-the-art modern facility that was completed in 2000. The terraced hillside vineyard sits at an average altitude of 350m. The soils of clay and grey limestone, which, combined with a microclimate, give the location a terroir of unique quality. The Domaine specializes in producing well-structured wines with pronounced fruit aromas and saturated colors.
Terroir & Vineyard Practices:
A mixture of clay, limestone, and grey sandstone on steep slopes. The vines average 25-30 years old. Yields are a low 40 hl/ha. Domaine de Mourchon's application of sustainable viticulture means a commitment to the use of natural and organic methods wherever practical and the use of chemicals as a last resort – 'culture raisonée' as it is known in France.
Tasting Notes
A yellow-green color with a delicate nose. Subtle floral aromas give way to ripe peach and apricot flavors. The wine has a beautiful roundness on the mid-palette with touches of honey and citrus on the finish. Perfect as an aperitif but also pairs well with a wide range of light dishes, mixed salads, and cheeses.
Vinification
Direct pressing and fermentation take place at low temperatures. This wine does not see oak. The final blend (the assemblage) is chosen according to the particular characteristics of the vintage. It is Domaine bottled.
