Delas Freres Les Challeys St Joseph Blanc 2016

Producer Information

Founded 160 years ago in the heart of the northern Côtes du Rhône, Delas Freres today crafts world class wines from both northern and southern Rhône.

Tending the steep sloping vineyards, which total some 30 hectares of vines, the team adapt their growing practices to each plot of vines to let the terroir of the Rhône shine through in the wines.

Crafted by winemaker Jacques Grange (who is originally from Burgundy), the wines from Delas Freres epitomise finesse and elegance. Recent vintages from the vineyards of Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Côte Rôtie, Condrieu, Côtes-du-Rhône and Côtes-du-Ventoux have bee lauded in the press for their intensity of flavour and excellent value.

Vineyards

The soils consist of light schist and gneiss over a granite bedrock.
The climate is moderately continental, with hot and dry summers, and regular rainfalls the rest of the year. Exposure is south to south-east.

Winemaking

Grapes are hand picked and then transported to the winery in small boxes. Gentle pressing produces a must that is fermented at low temperatures 16 to 18°C (61 to 64°F) in closed tanks in order to make the most of the complex aromas of the Marsanne and Roussanne varieties.

Vintage Information

In terms of the flowering, it took place two to three weeks later than in 2015, which ultimately corresponds to a typical year. The first stage of flowering took place in sunny conditions, whereas the second stage unfortunately took place in heavy rain. By the end of summer the vineyards had returned to a perfectly healthy state and ripening went well, particularly after a beneficial rainy spell in early September.

Tasting Note

A brilliant, green gold colour. The nose shows very pure floral aromas that mingle with citrus and preserved fruit. On the palate, the wine has similar flavours, with an added touch of honey. Its finish is clean and clear, with flavours of flowers and fresh almonds.

Food Pairing

delicious with poultry stuffed with fruit (apricots, peaches,...) or any hard cheese.

Press

90 Points Robert Parker

Saint-Joseph AOC
80% Marsanne
20% Roussanne

Cork
Yes
No

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