Domaine des Ardoisières - Argile Blanc 2024
The Domaine des Ardoisières, located in Saint-Pierre-de-Soucy in Savoie, is a benchmark in the qualitative renewal of Alpine wines. The estate was founded by Michel Grisard before being taken over by Brice Omont in the early 2000s, who continued demanding work on sometimes very steep mountain slopes. The vines are planted on spectacular terraces that can reach steep slopes, on soils derived notably from micaschists and clay-schist formations that deeply mark the identity of the wines. In this Alpine vineyard, yields are naturally limited and cultivation is conducted biodynamically to preserve the expression of the terroir. The Argile cuvée fits into this philosophy and is one of the estate's emblematic whites, offering an accessible yet precise reading of the Ardoisières style. Produced under the IGP Vin des Allobroges, it reflects the typical mineral and luminous character of great Savoie wines.
The Argile Blanc 2024 cuvée is made from a blend of Savoyard and Burgundian grape varieties, combining Jacquère, Chardonnay, and Mondeuse Blanche. The vines are grown on west-facing slopes where soils mixing clays, schist marls, and black schists favor concentrated and expressive grapes. The harvest is carried out at maturity to preserve the natural freshness typical of Alpine vineyards. Vinification relies on spontaneous fermentations with indigenous yeasts, followed by aging of about nine months mainly in tanks, intended to preserve the purity of the fruit and the wine's tension. Malolactic fermentation is not systematic, allowing adjustment of balance depending on the vintage. This precise work gives birth to a dry white that is both straight, luminous, and faithful to its mountain origin.
On tasting, Argile Blanc 2024 reveals a fine nose where notes of fresh pear, peach, and white flowers mingle, enhanced by citrus nuances and a mineral touch reminiscent of wet stone. The palate is distinguished by a fluid and energetic texture, supported by a clear acidity that highlights the freshness of the vintage. The balance is articulated between the fruit's indulgence and a mineral tension characteristic of Alpine soils. The finish stretches elegantly with slight saline bitterness that prolongs the sensation of purity. This white wine from Savoie pairs perfectly with grilled fish, shellfish, or mountain cheeses such as reblochon. In its youth, it seduces with its liveliness but can also evolve for a few years in the bottle, gaining aromatic complexity.
Grape varieties: 40% Jacquère, 40% Chardonnay, 20% Mondeuse Blanche
