Saint-Péray "Les Pins" 2024 Bernard Gripa | Rhône

In the south of the Saint Péray area, on the granite slopes overlooking the Rhone plain, Domaine Bernard Gripa 's Saint-Péray Les Pins is in the tradition of the great white wines of the Northern Rhône Valley. This cuvée is made from various plots in the Putiers area, whose soils combine clay-limestone substrata with weathered granite, and blends a majority of Marsanne with around a third of Roussanne. The grapes are hand-harvested to preserve the integrity of the berries, then slowly pressed before natural fermentation in thermo-regulated stainless steel tanks. Ageing on fine lees is divided between concrete vats and old oak barrels, preserving the wine's natural freshness while adding real depth. The Les Pins cuvée reflects the precise, consistent style of Domaine Bernard Gripa, an historic reference in the appellation.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : Domaine Bernard Gripa 's Saint-Péray Les Pins is one of the finest in its appellation. Low yields and meticulous ageing reveal a juice of prodigious energy, between the natural tension of granite and the aromatic richness of Marsanne. A great white Saint Péray!

On the nose, aromas of white flowers, verbena, citrus and stone fruit burst from the glass with extraordinary vivacity and concentration. Aeration brings out aromas of orchard fruits, from mirabelle plums to apricots and nectarines, mingled with the white pepper aromas typical of Northern Rhône whites.

On the palate, this Saint Péray blanc cuvée Les Pins is greedy from the outset, with a full, enveloping body whose charm increases as the tasting progresses. Fine, balanced acidity adds freshness to the yellow fruit and roasted citrus flavors. On the finish, the mineral and delicately woody undertones coat the palate with their silky, vibrant persistence.