Domaine de Belle Mare Viognier: A Burst of Sunshine in Every Sip

The Languedoc, a sun-drenched region in southern France, is renowned for its bold reds and crisp whites. Domaine de Belle Mare takes full advantage of this Mediterranean climate, crafting a delightful Viognier that captures the essence of the region. This tasting note delves into the characteristics of this alluring white wine, exploring its flavours, aromas, and ideal food pairings.

Unveiling the Bouquet: A Symphony of Floral and Stone Fruit

Domaine de Belle Mare Viognier greets the nose with a captivating wave of aromas. The Viognier grape is known for its expressive nature, and this expression shines through magnificently. Expect to be greeted by:

• Floral notes: Delicate scents of violets, honeysuckle, and white flowers create an initial impression of freshness and springtime.
• Stone fruit: Ripe apricots, peaches, and a hint of nectarines emerge, hinting at the juicy flavours to come.
• Hints of citrus: A touch of zesty lemon or grapefruit adds a refreshing dimension and balances the sweetness of the fruit.
• Mineral notes: Depending on the vintage, subtle hints of minerality can add complexity, suggesting a sense of place and reflecting the terroir of the Languedoc.

On the Palate: A Balanced Dance of Flavour

The first sip of Belle Mare Viognier is a delightful revelation. The wine boasts a medium body, offering a satisfying weight on the palate without feeling heavy. The initial burst of fruit flavours apricots, peaches, and melon mirrors the aromas, delivering a juicy and refreshing character.

Acidity plays a crucial role in this Viognier. A lively streak of acidity cuts through the richness of the fruit, ensuring the wine remains balanced and prevents it from becoming cloying. This balanced acidity is a hallmark of well-made Viognier and contributes to the wine’s overall drinkability.

The finish of Belle Mare Viognier is clean and dry, leaving a lingering impression of stone fruit and a touch of minerality. This dry finish makes it a versatile food pairing wine, as it won’t overpower the flavours of your meal.

Food Pairings: A Match Made in Languedoc

Domaine de Belle Mare Viognier’s versatility shines when it comes to food pairings. Here are some ideal matches to elevate your dining experience:

• Seafood: The wine’s inherent fruitiness and acidity make it a perfect companion to a variety of seafood dishes. Grilled fish, such as sea bass or salmon, finds a beautiful complement in the Viognier’s flavours. Shellfish, like scallops or prawns, are another excellent choice.
• Light Poultry: Roasted chicken or turkey with fresh herbs pairs wonderfully with Belle Mare Viognier. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the poultry, while the fruit flavours complement the savoury notes.
• Salads: Salads bursting with fresh summer vegetables, such as a goat cheese salad or a Nioise salad, find a refreshing partner in this Viognier. The wine’s acidity enhances the flavours of the vegetables, while the fruit notes add a touch of sweetness.
• Goat Cheese: The creamy texture and tangy flavour of goat cheese creates a delightful harmony with Belle Mare Viognier. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a balanced and enjoyable pairing.
• Spicy Food: Viognier’s natural sweetness can help tame the heat of spicy dishes. Consider pairing it with Thai curries, Indian curries with lighter sauces (e.g., coconut curry), or Szechuan cuisine.

Serving Recommendations

To fully appreciate the vibrancy of Belle Mare Viognier, serve it chilled between 10C and 12C (50F to 54F). This temperature range brings out the wine’s aromatic profile and accentuates its refreshing acidity.

A Sip of Sunshine

Domaine de Belle Mare Viognier is a delightful expression of the Viognier grape from the Languedoc region. Bursting with floral and stone fruit aromas, it delivers a balanced and refreshing taste on the palate. Its versatility with food makes it a perfect choice for a variety of dishes, allowing you to experience a taste of the sunny Languedoc with every sip. So, uncork a bottle, gather your friends and family, and let the sunshine in a glass.