White wines of Savoie: Overview, to the heart of the terroir

Savoie's white wines have become a must-have for wine lovers. The numerous terroirs at the foot of the Savoyard mountains allow for the cultivation of a wide variety of white grape varieties, each with its own character and flavor.

Dry white wines from Savoie: a unique taste discovery

Savoie's dry white wines are highly sought after for their quality and diversity. Here are some key points to help you better understand and appreciate them:

• Origin and terroir : Savoie, a mountainous region in the south-east of France, benefits from a unique terroir, ideal for the production of characterful white wines.
• Main grape varieties : Jacquère, Altesse (Roussette), Chardonnay, Bergeron and Chasselas are the emblematic grape varieties of the region, offering great aromatic diversity.
• Wine characteristics : Dry white wines from Savoie are characterized by their freshness, lightness, and minerality. They have fruity and floral aromas, sometimes with a hint of acidity.

To better appreciate these wines, here are some elements to take into account for your tasting:

• Food and wine pairings : These wines pair perfectly with local products, such as lake fish, Savoie cheeses such as tomme de brebis and local charcuterie.
• Serving temperature : Serve chilled, between 8 and 10°C, to fully appreciate the flavors.

Jacquere grape variety

The most widespread white grape variety in Savoie is Jacquère, which represents approximately 50% of the vineyard. This variety produces light, fresh, and pale-colored wines with floral and mineral notes. Jacquère wine is the star of the Chignin appellation.

Our Chignin Vieilles Vignes and Chignin Argile sur Schistes vintages are made from this grape variety.

Savoy Fruit Bat

Roussette de Savoie, also known as Altesse, is a white grape variety characteristic of the Savoyard vineyard. Representing approximately 10% of the total Savoyard vineyard area, this grape variety produces wines with a complex structure and fruity and floral aromas, making them sought-after vintages appreciated by connoisseurs.

The myth claims that Altesse originated on the island of Cyprus and was brought to Savoy during the Crusades. In any case, this grape variety has adapted perfectly to the Savoyard terroir, benefiting from its climate and soils to develop all its flavorful qualities.

Our Roussette Baron Decouz is a single-plot cuvée, produced in small quantities. Produced through rigorous grape selection, this cuvée is distinguished by its finesse and elegance, offering a rich and varied aromatic palette. It features notes of citrus, white-fleshed fruits, and white flowers, all supported by a refreshing minerality.

Chignin Bergeron: Chignin’s emblematic grape variety

In Savoie, "Roussanne" is known as "Bergeron". It produces the famous Chignin Bergeron, a rather powerful wine with aromas of apricot, honey, and quince. This grape variety is difficult to master both in the vineyard and in the cellar.

Our Chignin-Bergeron Cuvée Exception is certainly the most representative of all. Our St-Anthelme cuvée is characterized by traditional aging in oak barrels, while the Les Salins cuvée comes from a small plot with arid and very chalky soil.

Chignin Vielle Vigne: The Expression of the Terroir of Savoie White Wines

Chignin Vielle Vigne perfectly embodies the essence of the Savoyard terroir of Savoie white wines. This dry and elegant white wine highlights the richness of the Savoie soil, contributing to the diversity of Savoie whites. With its complex aromas of flowers, white peach, and almonds, it offers an exceptional tasting experience. It pairs perfectly with Asian cuisine, spicy dishes, and hard cheeses.

Chignin Clay on Schist: The Minerality of Savoie White Wines

Chignin Argile sur Schiste is a dry white wine that draws its richness from the clay and schist soil of Savoie, highlighting the minerality characteristic of white Savoie wines. It is distinguished by its pronounced minerality, lively acidity, and aromas of green apple. This fresh and crisp wine pairs perfectly with seafood, light salads, and vegetable dishes, bringing a touch of freshness to every meal.

Chignin Bergeron Les Salins: The Subtle Balance of Savoy Whites

Chignin Bergeron Les Salins is a dry white wine that fully expresses the unique character of the Savoyard terroir of Savoie whites. It features subtle aromas of pear, apricot, and honey, accompanied by a refreshing minerality. This delicate balance makes it an ideal pairing with a variety of dishes, particularly fish dishes in sauce and soft cheeses. Each sip is a true invitation to a taste journey to the French Alps.

In this diversity of white Savoie wines from Domaine Berthollier, each vintage tells a unique story of the terroir and grape varieties of Savoie, highlighting the excellence of Savoie whites in the world of Savoie white wine. Whether you prefer the elegance of Roussette Baron Decouz, the complexity of Chignin Bergeron Exception, the freshness of Chignin Vielle Vigne, the minerality of Chignin Argile sur Schiste or the subtle balance of Chignin Bergeron Les Salins, you will find a white Savoie wine that will satisfy your taste buds and awaken your senses to the authenticity of this exceptional wine region.

Chasselas grape variety

Chasselas represents 5% of Savoy's vineyards. It has a characteristic aroma of toast, fresh avocado, or dried fruit. Savoy wines made from these grape varieties are perfect as an aperitif or with lake fish such as perch, salmon, or skate. AOP Vin de Savoie Crépy, Marignan, Marin, and Ripaille are composed of at least 80% Chasselas.