History of Savoie white wines
Savoie wines have a history dating back to Roman times, but it was in the 20th century that regional viticulture really took off. Since the 1970s, our family has focused on viticulture in Savoie, clearing hillsides to plant iconic grape varieties like Roussanne. Today, we are proud to perpetuate this expertise while incorporating environmentally friendly practices.
The characteristics of Savoie white wines
Savoie white wines are distinguished by their freshness, minerality, and invigorating acidity. The Alpine climate, characterized by harsh winters and sunny summers, favors the slow ripening of the grapes. At Domaine Berthollier, we work primarily with grape varieties such as Jacquère, Bergeron, and Roussanne, which perfectly express the qualities of our terroir. Our wines are produced without the addition of sulfur during vinification to preserve their purity and authenticity.
The different appellations of Savoie white wines
Savoie has several controlled designations of origin (AOC) which guarantee the authenticity of its wines:
- AOC Vin de Savoie : This appellation encompasses several vintages, including our Chignin and Chignin-Bergeron, which express the diversity of the Savoyard terroir.
- AOC Roussette de Savoie : Our wines produced from the Altesse grape variety, also called Roussette, are distinguished by their finesse and their aging potential.
The main grape varieties used
- Jacquère : The emblematic grape variety of Savoie, producing fresh, light, and mineral wines. Our Chignin Vieilles Vignes is an excellent example of this grape variety, perfect for accompanying Savoyard dishes.
- Altesse (Roussette) : This noble grape variety produces elegant white wines with aromas of white-fleshed fruit and a beautiful structure on the palate. Our Roussette de Savoie Baron Decouz is a cuvée of character, ideal for refined dishes.
- Roussanne (Bergeron) : Used for our Chignin-Bergeron , this grape variety produces powerful, aromatic wines with notes of ripe fruit and almond.
The best vintages of white wines from Savoie
- Chignin-Bergeron : Produced from Roussanne, our Chignin-Bergeron Exception is distinguished by its aromatic richness and beautiful structure. It is perfect with dishes such as chicken with morels.
- Chignin : Our Chignin Vieilles Vignes is a light and floral wine, ideal for aperitifs or as an accompaniment to fish and seafood.
- Roussette de Savoie : With vintages like Baron Decouz , this wine offers an elegance and complexity that goes well with spicy dishes or mature cheeses.
Focus on biodynamic viticulture at Domaine Berthollier
At Domaine Berthollier, we are committed to environmentally friendly viticulture. For several years, our vines have been cultivated biodynamically , a method that respects natural cycles and strengthens the vitality of the soil. This choice allows us to produce authentic wines that fully express the Savoie terroir while respecting biodiversity. Our biodynamic practices are a guarantee of quality and respect for nature, and they result in lively wines that are both pure and complex.
Savoie white wines and gastronomy
Savoie white wines, with their freshness, lively acidity, and minerality, are perfect companions for a wide variety of dishes. At Domaine Berthollier, we offer a few gourmet pairings that will enhance both your everyday meals and your most refined dinners.
Chignin-Bergeron: Elegance in the service of rich dishes
Chignin -Bergeron , made from the Roussanne grape variety, is a powerful and aromatic white wine with notes of ripe fruit, almonds and sometimes honey. It pairs perfectly with rich dishes, as its ample structure and good acidity balance the richness of the food.
- White meats in sauce : Whether it's chicken with cream and mushrooms, poultry with morels, or even pork tenderloin in mustard sauce, Chignin-Bergeron enhances the flavors of these dishes with its roundness and complexity.
- Fish in beurre blanc sauce : Fish such as pikeperch, sea bass, or salmon, prepared in beurre blanc sauce, will find this wine a perfect companion. The wine's fruity aromas and minerality blend perfectly with the richness and creaminess of the sauce.
Roussette de Savoie: The finesse for spicy dishes and mature cheeses
Roussette de Savoie , produced from the Altesse grape variety, is a fine, delicately aromatic wine with notes of white-fleshed fruits, flowers, and a mineral touch. This cuvée offers a beautiful harmony between finesse and complexity, making it ideal for more delicate or lightly spiced dishes.
- Spicy Dishes : Roussette de Savoie can be a subtle accompaniment to mildly spiced dishes, such as tandoori poultry or a mild curry. The wine's fruit aromas and minerality soften the spices while enhancing the flavors of the dish.
- Seafood : This wine also pairs perfectly with seafood such as scallops, shrimp, or oysters. The freshness and acidity balance the natural sweetness of the seafood, creating a harmonious pairing.
- Mature Cheeses : Finally, Roussette de Savoie is an excellent choice for pairing with mature cheeses, especially mountain cheeses like Beaufort or Abondance. The complex aromas of the wine highlight the robust flavors and creamy texture of these cheeses.
Chignin Vieilles Vignes: Conviviality at the table
Chignin Vieilles Vignes , made from the Jacquère grape variety, is a dry, light and floral white wine, with a lively acidity that makes it particularly refreshing. It is the perfect partner for convivial and simple dishes, where it plays the role of an excellent accompanying wine.
- Raclette and fondue : These iconic Savoie dishes, rich in melted cheese, pair perfectly with Chignin Vieilles Vignes. The freshness of the wine balances the richness of the cheese, while enhancing the salty and smoky flavors of the cured meats and potatoes.
- Aperitif with tapas : For a convivial aperitif, Chignin Vieilles Vignes pairs well with a variety of tapas, such as olives, fried calamari, bruschettas, or fresh cheeses. Its lively acidity and floral aromas make it an easy-drinking wine that perfectly prepares the palate for the meal to come.
Tasting of Savoie white wines
To taste our white wines, start by observing the color, often pale yellow with golden highlights. The nose will reveal delicate aromas of fruit, white flowers, and sometimes mineral notes. On the palate, our wines are distinguished by their balance between acidity and roundness, with a fresh and persistent finish. At Domaine Berthollier, each vintage is an invitation to discover the richness and diversity of Savoyard terroirs.
Coup de Théâtre Our white Savoy wine with a bold and harmonious blend
Domaine Berthollier's Coup de Théâtre is a white wine from Savoie produced under the IGP Vin des Allobroges . It is distinguished by a blend of three emblematic Savoie grape varieties: Roussanne , Jacquère , and Altesse .
- Roussanne (or Bergeron): Brings fruitiness and elegance to the wine with notes of peach and toasted almond.
- Jacquère : Provides freshness and minerality thanks to its lightness and liveliness, characteristics of Savoie wines.
- Altesse : Adds delicacy and a certain roundness, thus complementing the aromatic complexity of the wine.
This vintage is the result of sunny years that allow the richness of the Savoyard terroir to be expressed. The grapes come from limestone scree slopes and glacial moraines, facing south and southwest. Organic viticulture and biodynamic practices guarantee total respect for nature, reinforcing the authenticity of this wine.
Vinification takes place in three stages: 60% in vats, 30% in barrels, and 10% in amphorae, for aging that preserves the integrity of the aromas. Malolactic fermentation and the use of indigenous yeasts add to the complexity of this wine, while bottling, following the lunar phases, demonstrates the care taken at each stage.
This wine, with its aromas of peach, toasted almonds, and notes of butter and spices, offers a fine, chiseled palate with a mineral, taut finish. It is ideal as an aperitif or to accompany lake fish, white meats in sauce, or soft cheeses.
Where to buy Domaine Berthollier wines?
All our wines are available for purchase directly from our online store www.chignin.com. Whether you are looking for a Chignin-Bergeron , a Roussette de Savoie or a Chignin Vieilles Vignes , you will find a wide selection of our vintages, carefully crafted and ready to be enjoyed. We ensure fast and secure delivery so you can enjoy our wines wherever you are.
Our wines are also available for purchase at a network of independent wine merchants located throughout France. To find out which ones are near you, please contact us.
Distinctions and awards
Our wines are annually noted in the Guide de la Revue du Vins de France, this guide is the equivalent of the Michelin Guide for gastronomy. And our estate is rated 1 star by this same guide. These distinctions are a recognition of our work and our passion for biodynamic viticulture. Our vintages, such as the Chignin-Bergeron Les Salins or the Roussette Baron Decouz, are particularly appreciated for their complexity and authenticity.
Current trends and the future of Savoie white wines
The popularity of Savoie wines continues to grow, both in France and internationally. Consumers are increasingly attracted to authentic wines produced using environmentally friendly production methods. At Domaine Berthollier, we are proud to contribute to this trend by offering wines that respect our terroir and promote biodiversity. We continue to innovate while remaining true to our roots, to offer ever more expressive and refined wines.
Tips for storing Savoie white wines
To preserve all the qualities of our wines, it is important to store them in good conditions. We recommend a storage temperature between 10 and 12°C, away from light and temperature fluctuations. Our vintages, such as the Chignin-Bergeron Exception or the Roussette Baron Decouz, can improve with age, but it is recommended to enjoy them within 3 to 5 years to appreciate their freshness and aromatic complexity.
Conclusion
Domaine Berthollier's Savoie white wines reflect a unique terroir and family expertise passed down through generations. By choosing our wines, you experience the purity and vitality of our region, enhanced by our biodynamic practices. We invite you to discover and share these wine treasures by ordering directly from our online store.
FAQ
- What grape varieties are used in your white wines?
- We mainly use Jacquère, Altesse (Roussette), and Roussanne (Bergeron).
- How to pair Savoie white wines with food?
- Our wines pair perfectly with Savoyard dishes, seafood, and mature cheeses.
- Are your wines available for purchase online?
- Yes, all our wines are available on our online store with fast delivery.
- What is biodynamic viticulture?
- It is an agricultural method that respects natural cycles and strengthens soil health, essential in our production.