La Montagne AOC 2017

Wine Description for La Montagne AOC 2017 by Saint Jean Du Barroux

Character

This Southern Rhône white wine from the 2017 vintage embodies the Mediterranean elegance of the region with remarkable concentration. The classic blend of Grenache Blanc, Clairette and Bourboulenc yields a full-bodied, aromatically complex wine with 14.5% alcohol that unites power and finesse. The cuvée from the shadow of Mont Ventoux testifies to the Southern Rhône’s ability to produce white wines of distinctive character – beyond the dominance of red varieties.

Terroir & Origin

Saint Jean du Barroux lies at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, in close proximity to Gigondas and Beaumes-de-Venise. The terroir benefits from calcareous soils and the cooling effect of the elevated location, which despite the Mediterranean climate ensures freshness and aromatic precision. The 2017 vintage was characterised by heat and drought in the Southern Rhône, which produced concentrated, ripe wines with good structure. The proximity to Mont Ventoux brings cooling winds that preserve acidity.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Grenache Blanc typically forms the backbone and provides body, smoothness and aromas of white flowers and ripe fruits. Clairette contributes freshness, citrus notes and mineral tension, whilst Bourboulenc provides structure, ageing potential and fine herbal spice. This traditional Southern French blend requires craftsmanship during harvest and gentle processing. The wine is aged presumably in stainless steel or neutral vessels to preserve fruit clarity.

Food Pairing Recommendations

An ideal companion to Provençal cuisine: Bouillabaisse, grilled sea bass with fennel, Ratatouille or goat’s cheese from the region. The wine’s body and ripeness harmonise beautifully with poultry in cream sauces, scallops or risotto with porcini mushrooms. This Mediterranean white wine also proves remarkably versatile with Asian dishes of moderate spiciness.