Introduction to Savoie wines A little-known jewel of the mountains
When we talk about Savoie wines, we often think of snow-capped mountains and melted cheese in winter, but few people truly understand the richness and diversity of this wine region. Savoie wines are not as famous as those of Bordeaux or Burgundy, but they possess a unique character, forged by a mountainous terroir, a particular climate, and unusual grape varieties. Located in the heart of the Alps, this wine region is a true hidden treasure. In this article, we will explore the 10 most popular AOCs (Appellations d'Origine Contrôlée) in Savoie, so you can better understand and appreciate the diversity of this authentic region.
What makes Savoie wines so unique
The vineyards of Savoie benefit from a unique climate, combining alpine influences and generous sunshine. Winters are harsh, enhancing the freshness and acidity of the grapes, and summers, although sunny, are tempered by the altitude. Savoie cultivates little-known grape varieties that grow nowhere else, such as Jacquère, Mondeuse, Gringet, and Altesse, each bringing specific aromas and characteristics to the region's wines. The soils are equally varied: limestone, marl, and glacial moraines are found, allowing the wines to develop an incomparable minerality and freshness.
Why are AOCs important in Savoie?
AOCs (Appellations d'Origine Contrôlée) ensure the quality and authenticity of Savoie wines. Created in 1973, the "Vin de Savoie" AOC protects the region's identity by ensuring that wines produced here meet strict quality criteria, in terms of grape varieties, cultivation methods, and winemaking. These appellations help protect local expertise and promote the region's rare grape varieties, while offering consumers a guarantee of authenticity. Savoie has several sub-appellations, each representing a unique terroir with distinct characteristics. Let's discover these 10 popular AOCs together.
1) AOC Apremont
The Apremont AOC is one of Savoie's most iconic wines. Located in the commune of the same name, this appellation is best known for its dry white wines, made from the Jacquère grape variety. Apremont is a light, mineral, and floral wine, with notes of white flowers, pear, and green apple. Its minerality comes directly from the limestone soils and glacial moraines where the vines are planted. It is a very fresh wine, often appreciated for its simplicity and frankness. It pairs wonderfully with Savoyard specialties such as fondue and raclette, and also pairs well with fish and seafood.
2. AOC Chignin
Chignin is another popular appellation, also made from Jacquère. However, Chignin wines have their own distinct identity, with stone fruit aromas and lively acidity. Chignin wines are distinguished by their finesse and freshness. This appellation produces mainly white wines, but there are also some reds and rosés. Chignin pairs well with light dishes, grilled fish, or fresh vegetables in summer. It's an everyday wine, bringing freshness without ever being overly complex.
3. AOC Chignin-Bergeron
Chignin-Bergeron is one of Savoie's most renowned AOCs , particularly prized for the excellence of its powerful and elegant white wines. Nestled on sunny, well-exposed hillsides, this appellation draws its originality from the Roussanne grape variety, which here bears the name "Bergeron." This noble grape variety, less common in Savoie than Jacquère, gives Chignin-Bergeron a richness and complexity that distinguish it from other white wines in the region. On the palate, we find deep aromas of ripe apricot, peach, and exotic fruits, often enhanced with nuances of honey and hazelnut. Its bouquet also offers floral notes, sometimes acacia or orange blossom, which add a touch of finesse and elegance.
This wine has a generous structure and a smooth texture, making it an ideal choice for rich and refined dishes. Its roundness, balanced by a nice acidity, pairs wonderfully with white meats in sauce, such as poultry in cream sauce, veal, or rabbit. It also pairs perfectly with mushroom dishes, particularly morels or porcini mushrooms, whose earthy flavors complement the wine's aromatic complexity. Chignin-Bergeron also knows how to enhance fish in sauce, or dishes with Asian accents, such as spicy dishes or sweet and savory flavors, thanks to its ability to balance varied flavors.
4. AOC Jongieux
The Jongieux AOC produces a wide variety of wines: whites, reds, and even rosés. This appellation is located near the Rhône River, giving the wines a very distinct character. The white wines of Jongieux, mainly made from Jacquère grapes, are fresh and floral, perfect with fish or seafood dishes. The red wines, made from Mondeuse grapes, have a beautiful structure, with notes of red fruits and spices, and pair well with meat dishes or grilled meats. Jongieux is the versatile AOC of Savoie, with a range of wines for every occasion.
5. AOC Roussette de Savoie
Roussette de Savoie is an AOC dedicated to a particular grape variety: Altesse. This white wine is often referred to as a "noble wine" in Savoie, thanks to its elegance and finesse. It features aromas of white flowers, citrus, and exotic fruits, with a well-balanced acidity that gives it plenty of freshness. Roussette de Savoie is ideal with fish, shellfish, or dishes with subtle flavors. It is also a wine that ages well, gaining complexity over time.
6. AOC Seyssel
The Seyssel AOC is one of the region's oldest appellations, renowned for the quality of its still and sparkling wines. Seyssel's still wines are primarily made from Altesse, while the sparkling wines also use the Molette grape variety. Seyssel sparkling wine is delicate, with fine bubbles and subtle aromas of white flowers and fresh fruit. It's a sparkling wine that can be reminiscent of certain champagnes in its finesse, although it retains its own distinct identity. Seyssel is perfect for aperitifs or to accompany light desserts.
7. AOC Ayze
Ayze is a unique appellation in Savoie, particularly because it produces sparkling wines made from the Gringet grape, a rare variety that grows virtually nowhere else. Ayze wines are fresh, light, and fruity, with notes of apple and white flowers. These sparkling wines are perfect as an aperitif or to accompany seafood and light dishes. Ayze is a festive and refreshing wine, ideal for special occasions or an impromptu aperitif.
8. AOC Crépy
The Crépy AOC, located near Lake Geneva, specializes in Chasselas, a grape variety widely grown in this region. Crépy wines are fresh, mineral, and very pleasant to drink, with delicate aromas of white fruits and flowers. They pair perfectly with fish and seafood dishes, as well as summer salads. Crépy is a pleasant wine, ideal for light meals outdoors or a picnic by the lake.
9. AOC Marignan
Like the Crépy AOC, the Marignan AOC is located near Lake Geneva and features the Chasselas grape variety. Marignan wines are elegant and possess a beautiful minerality, accompanied by subtle notes of flowers and fruit. This white wine pairs well with fish, but it can also accompany white meats or vegetable dishes. Marignan is a terroir wine, reflecting the purity and freshness of its alpine environment.
10. AOC Marin
Last but not least, the AOC Marin is also close to Lake Geneva and produces delicate white wines from the Chasselas grape variety. Marin is fresh, lively, and has a slight minerality that makes it very pleasant on the palate. With notes of white fruits and a hint of acidity, it is perfect with shellfish, fish, or summer meals. It is an easy-drinking wine that perfectly represents the convivial spirit of Savoie wines.
Food and wine pairings with Savoie wines
Savoie wines are made to be enjoyed with regional dishes , such as fondue, raclette or diots. However, their freshness and minerality also make them ideal companions for lighter dishes, fish and seafood. Here are some classic pairings to enhance your Savoie wines:
- Savoyard fondue : Choose an Apremont or a Chignin, which will bring a lovely freshness and minerality that will balance the richness of the melted cheese.
- Raclette : Roussette de Savoie is an excellent choice, with its acidity and structure cutting through the richness of the raclette.
- Lake fish : Wines from Crépy, Marignan or Marin are perfect with grilled fish or fish-based dishes.
- Aperitifs : For an aperitif, nothing beats a sparkling Ayze or a sparkling Seyssel to start the evening on a festive note.
Why choose AOC wines from Savoie?
Savoie AOC wines are a gateway to a world of authentic and diverse flavors. Each wine is a unique expression of its terroir, offering aromatic profiles ranging from floral freshness to spice, mineral, and fruity notes. The quality of Savoie wines is constantly improving, and more and more estates are turning to environmentally friendly practices to produce wines that reflect their region and history. By choosing an AOC Savoie wine, you are also supporting an ancestral winemaking heritage and expertise that has spanned centuries.
Savoie wines, although less well-known than those of France's major wine regions, offer an incredible diversity of flavors and styles. The ten AOCs presented here are testament to the richness of the Savoyard terroir and the talent of its winemakers. Whether you're looking for a light summer wine, a complex white for a gourmet meal, or a sparkling wine for special occasions, Savoie wines have something to offer for every taste. So, the next time you're looking for a bottle, why not indulge in a Savoie wine?
FAQ
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What is the oldest AOC of Savoie wines?
The Seyssel AOC is one of the oldest appellations in Savoie, renowned for its elegant wines, both still and sparkling. -
Which grape varieties dominate Savoie wines?
Emblematic grape varieties include Jacquère, Altesse, Mondeuse and Gringet, each bringing unique aromas and a touch of Alpine character. -
What is the difference between an AOC and an AOP?
AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) is the French label, while AOP (Appellation d'Origine Protégée) is its European equivalent, both guaranteeing quality of origin. -
How to serve a Savoie wine properly?
Savoie white wines are served chilled, around 10-12°C, while reds can be served slightly warm, around 14-16°C to express their aromas.
Although whites dominate, Savoie wines also include reds (made from Mondeuse) and sparkling wines, offering a varied palette for all tastes.