One of the lesser-known wine regions in France is in the eastern part of the country near Switzerland and has had a high degree of Swiss influence.
Savoie (pronounced sav-wah) is located in the far east of France, in the mountainous areas just south of Lac Léman (Lake Geneva) and the glaciated peaks of Mont Blanc and the border with Switzerland. The region's location and geography have a very defined its character, which is fragmented, hilly and slightly Swiss. This is evident in the fresh, crisp white wines made here, which are usually light and fresh. Most of the vineyards are on the banks of the Rhône River.
Savoie boasts a breathtaking ambiance of snow-capped peaks, rolling hills, wildflowers and pristine mountain streams. Comprising just under 5,000 vineyard acres in total and divided into 17 crus, this tiny region is white-wine dominant. The region stands out above all for its variety and the independent characteristics of its produced wines. The wines from Savoie are among wine enthusiasts' special highlights. The region produces some of the most remarkably original wines in France. We will sample:
Jean Perrier Cuvée Gastronomie Abymes Jacquère 2022 — Jean Perrier Winery was founded in 1853. The wine style and the winery’s dedication to local varieties such as Jacquère has not wavered. JP wines are stunning, different, and enthralling, creating flavor and palates that are not found anywhere else. Embodying their landscape and being resistant to change has made these wines special, delightful, and truly regional. Jacquère is Savioe’s most widely planted grape. It accounts for 50% of all the plantings and produces early-drinking, low alcohol, lively, dry wines. This early budding, generously yielding variety was historically over-cropped and made into very low alcohol, nondescript wines which were rarely exported and consumed primarily at the local chalets. More recently, attitudes have shifted and a number of growers have begun to limit their yields and employ progressive winemaking techniques, resulting in more nuanced, expressive and terroir-driven wines. This Jacquère is light, very crisp, and aromatic with notes of green apple, lime, honeysuckle, and mineral. 11.5% ABV. $19.50/$6.50
Le Vignes de Paradis Terroir de Leman Chasselas 2020 — Chasselas is the most important and widely planted white wine grape variety in Switzerland. It is also planted throughout Europe, particularly in France, Germany, Austria, parts of North Africa and as far away as North America. In France, Chasselas is not always taken seriously. Though it still has its champions, it has been largely removed from vineyards in Alsace and the Loire, where it was once considered “common”. It is still used in the production of table grapes, which may have created prejudice against its winemaking potential. This 100% Chasselas is made from 45-year-old vines cultivated biodynamically and planted on silty soils rich in molasse sandstone. It has a light, floral bouquet. On the palate, a fine balance of acidity and richness has been achieved. Winemaker Dominique Lucas adds very little sulphites to his vinified Chasselas. The wines resemble those made with Jacquère, with additional hints of fresh butter, toast and dried fruits and are designed to be drunk young. 12% ABV. $43.99/$14.50
Jean Perrier Cuvée Gastronomie Pinot Noir 2021 — Gilbert Perrier and his son, Gilles, are the fifth and sixth generations to make wine in the picturesque Alpine region of Savioe. The domaine has slowly expanded over the generations and today they own sixty hectares. Grapes are hand-harvested and gently vinified in stainless steel tanks. The wines are classic, crisp, and a pure expression of Savoie character. Fermented entirely in stainless steel, this Pinot Noir offers bright and lithe flavors of fresh cherry, raspberry, earth, and Alpine minerality. Low in tannin and alcohol and high in acidity and freshness, it is a great alternative to Burgundy. 12% ABV. $21/$7
See you Friday!