Vin de France „Petit Ours Blanc“ 2023

Wine Description for Vin de France „Petit Ours Blanc“ 2023 by Du Coulet

Colour & Appearance

Deep golden yellow with subtle copper-coloured reflections – a wine that visually already reveals its southern provenance and maturity.

Nose

Aromatic and multi-layered: Initially dominated by ripe juice of apples, quinces, pears and yellow plums. Then unfolds a fascinating mineral dimension with light smoke and crushed stone. To this are added matcha tea, gorse as well as subtle notes of pepper, anise and liquorice in the background – a complex, seductive bouquet.

Palate

The „Little Bear“ reveals its true stature on the palate: The ripe fruit fills the mouth completely, whilst the spicy aspects of pepper, liquorice, anise and fennel appear considerably more prominent than on the nose. The wine combines southern opulence with a remarkably refined texture and is elegantly balanced by a fine, supporting acidity.

Finish

Persistent and spicy with lingering notes of anise and mineral stone.

Terroir & Origin

The vines are rooted in clay, silt and sandy soils with a limestone base in the communes of Vallaurie, Allan and Visan – classic southern Rhône terroir, which lends the wine its mineral precision and depth.

Grape Variety & Vinification

A thoughtfully crafted cuvée of 60% Roussanne and 40% Marsanne, aged for 11 months in stainless steel tank. This vinification preserves freshness and fruit clarity, whilst the Roussanne contributes structure and spice.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Perfect with pan-fried monkfish, scallops with fennel vegetables, creamy mushroom risotto, chicken in cream sauce or aged Comté. The spicy component also harmonises wonderfully with Asian coconut-based curries.

Special Features

A characterful Vin de France that demonstrates great wines don’t always require an AOC designation. The combination of southern fullness and mineral finesse makes this „Petit Ours“ a remarkable companion.