Domaine Stéphane Ogier - Blanc d'Ogier 2024
In Ampuis, at the foot of the Côte-Rôtie hills, Stéphane Ogier continues a family history spanning seven generations. Since joining the estate in 1997, he has gradually expanded his viticultural horizon, exploring new terroirs in the northern Rhône without giving up the precision that characterizes his great single-vineyard cuvées. His Burgundian experience notably nourished his taste for individualized vinifications, controlled aging, and the pursuit of finesse. With Blanc d'Ogier, he offers a different interpretation of his know-how, dedicated to the three great white grape varieties of the region. The grapes come from vineyards located in Tupin-Semons, Ampuis, and Malleval, on granite formations characteristic of this part of the Rhône valley. Far from seeking the concentration of his most prestigious cuvées, this white favors the complementarity of the grape varieties, aromatic frankness, and a delicate texture.
The Blanc d'Ogier 2024 blends 50% Viognier, 25% Marsanne, and 25% Roussanne, from a 1.5-hectare vineyard with vines aged 10 to 25 years. The Viognier brings its floral character and stone fruit aromas, while the Marsanne contributes roundness and depth of mouthfeel. The Roussanne completes the blend with its aromatic finesse and ability to structure the assemblage. The harvest is done manually, with a first sorting directly in the vineyard, followed by a second selection upon arrival at the winery. After direct pressing, fermentation takes place thanks to indigenous yeasts, respecting the identity of the grapes. The wine then benefits from ten months of aging in barrels and tanks, on fine lees, to develop its texture while preserving the freshness of the fruit. This combination of the three grape varieties and the two aging vessels produces a white that is both expressive and nuanced, in which no component seeks to dominate the others.
In the glass, this Rhône white shows a pale yellow color with golden reflections, announcing a delicately southern aromatic profile. The nose evokes white peach, fresh apricot, and pear, accompanied by hints of white flowers and a touch of citrus. Aeration reveals more discreet notes of fresh almond and fine herbs, which add relief to the generous expression of the Viognier. On the palate, the attack is soft and fruity, extended by a slightly creamy texture inherited from aging on lees. A well-present freshness balances this roundness, while the finish retains a pleasant liveliness, accompanied by floral nuances and a discreet saline sensation. Accessible from its youth, this 2024 favors aromatic brightness and gourmandise rather than prolonged aging. It will pair particularly well with seared scallops, herb-crusted sea bass fillet, creamy poultry dishes, or langoustine ravioli, whose delicate textures will respond to its finesse.
Grape varieties: 50% Viognier, 25% Marsanne, 25% Roussanne
