La Paille 2022, Vin de Savoie Ayze Domaine du Gringet | Savoie

Domaine du Gringet 's Vin de Savoie Ayze La Paille embodies the most intimate expression of the Gringet grape variety. Its grapes come from century-old vines planted around 1930 on south-facing slopes. Here, the soils of white marl and limestone scree give the wines a rare mineral tension, directly linked to the terroir of the locality nicknamed La Paille, whose ancient origin of the name is inspired by the golden hue of the soils and vegetation in summer, reminiscent of the glow of sun-scorched fields. True to the spirit of the wine estate, the vines are cultivated according to organic and biodynamic practices, the grapes are gently pressed, and the wine undergoes 9 months of patient ageing on fine lees in ovoid concrete vats, followed by 10 months of bottle ageing without fining or filtration, with vacuum bottling to preserve all the purity of its Alpine identity.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin: La Paille cuvée is a brilliant illustration of the depth that Gringet can achieve in the Savoy wine landscape. This Vin de Savoie Ayze combines the precision of a mineral expression with savory flesh, and is distinguished by a remarkable ability to stand the test of time. Its aromatic complexity, underpinned by careful ageing, gives it a stature that's both exclusive and unmissable, appealing to both Alpine wine lovers and the curious in search of something special.

On the nose, the cuvée first seduces with a delicate floral and honeyed expression, combining jasmine, verbena and lime-blossom honey. Scents of sweet almond and fresh hazelnut follow, enriching the olfactory palette. A touch of flinty minerality, typical of the parcel, adds tension and complexity.

On the palate, the attack opens precisely with a silky, crystalline texture, immediately revealing Gringet's alpine freshness. The palate is full-bodied and slightly creamy, with a saline minerality that extends to mineral notes of gunflint. Dried fruit aromas are accompanied by nuances of apricot, ripe pear and citrus zest, offering a profile that is both rich and balanced. A spirited finish underscores the harmony between alpine tension, terroir minerality and aromatic complexity.