Andre & Michel Quenard Savoie Chignin Mondeuse “Vieilles Vignes” 2017

When we tell you the village of Chignin is in a mountainous region of France, we mean it. Some of the vineyards are so steep that it is impossible to stand upright without a guard rail. Though Savoie is thoroughly alpine complete with snow covered mountains, grapes manage to thrive on slopes with southern exposures and enough warmth to support even red grapes like Gamay, Pinot Noir, and Mondeuse. Michel Quenard and son, make their Vieilles Vignes Chignin rouge with 100% hand harvested Mondeuse from 70-year vines grown on 7 acres. The grapes are left un-crushed, and whole bunches are added to the vat for maceration of up to 15 days. After aging one year in foudre, the wine reveals pure fruit, heady aromas, and surprisingly good structure and depth for rouge made 50 miles from the Swiss border. 

Medium-bodied, dry. Bright raspberry, kirsch and blackberries on the nose. The palate is expressive and elegant with black fruit and strawberry. Floral notes, herbs, and terroir define a finely tannic finish. Pair with cheeses, roasted veal and poultry, cold meats, and lentil soup.