Autantique Chardonnay

L'Autantique Chardonnay: A Refreshingly Fruity Escape from Southern France

Languedoc, a sun-drenched wine region in southern France, is known for its bold reds and crisp whites. Nestled amongst these is the L'Autantique Chardonnay, a delightful expression of the Chardonnay grape. This unoaked Chardonnay prioritises freshness and fruit-forward flavours, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

In the Glass:

Pour yourself a glass of L'Autantique Chardonnay and be greeted by a beautiful pale gold colour with hints of green. As you swirl the wine, admire its clean viscosity that hints at a refreshing lightness on the palate.

On the Nose:

Take a deep breath and immerse yourself in a bouquet bursting with vibrant aromas. The first impression is likely to be one of fresh orchard fruits like crisp green apple, juicy pear, and perhaps a hint of honeydew melon. As the wine opens up, you might detect delicate floral notes like honeysuckle or white acacia, adding a touch of elegance to the profile.

On the Palate:

The first sip of L'Autantique Chardonnay confirms the initial impression of freshness. The unoaked nature of the wine allows the pure essence of the Chardonnay grape to shine through. The acidity is lively and balanced, offering a pleasant zing on the tongue. The flavours mirror the aromas, with a dominance of orchard fruits like apple and pear. Subtle hints of citrus, like grapefruit or lemon zest, might emerge, adding further complexity. The mid-palate reveals a touch of creaminess, hinting at the grape's potential for richer expressions when aged in oak barrels. The finish is clean and crisp, leaving you wanting another sip.

Food Pairings:

The unoaked character and refreshing acidity of L'Autantique Chardonnay make it a versatile food pairing wine. Here are some delectable options to consider:

• Seafood:  The bright acidity cuts through the richness of oily fish like salmon, mackerel, or tuna.  Pair it with a pan-seared salmon with lemon butter sauce or grilled tuna with a fresh salsa. For shellfish lovers, this Chardonnay complements the delicate flavours of shrimp, scallops, or lobster.
• Salads:  The lightness of the wine beautifully complements a variety of salads.  Try it with a classic Caesar salad, a Thai chicken salad with a peanut dressing, or a fresh Nicoise salad with tuna, olives, and hard-boiled eggs.
• Appetisers:  L'Autantique Chardonnay is a wonderful accompaniment to lighter appetisers.  Goat cheese with fig jam, grilled asparagus with parmesan cheese, or vegetable spring rolls are all excellent options.
• Chicken and Pork:  Don't shy away from pairing this Chardonnay with poultry and pork dishes.  The acidity balances the richness of roasted chicken or pork tenderloin.  For something more flavorful, try it with herb-roasted chicken or a dish with a creamy mushroom sauce.

Beyond the Bottle:

L'Autantique Chardonnay is produced by Les Vignobles Foncalieu, a union of cooperatives in the heart of Languedoc. They are committed to sustainable viticulture practices, ensuring that the quality of the grapes shines through in the final product.

In Conclusion:

L'Autantique Chardonnay is an unoaked delight from the Languedoc region. It offers a burst of fresh fruit flavours on the nose and palate, complemented by a lively acidity. Its versatility makes it a perfect choice for a variety of dishes, or simply to enjoy on its own. So next time you're looking for a refreshing and unoaked Chardonnay, reach for a bottle of L'Autantique and embark on a delightful journey to southern France.