From Domaine Berthoumieu by Didier Barre
750ml bottle

Silver - Decanter World Wine Awards

A golden-amber wine exhibiting a complexity of aromas of crystallized and dried fruits as well as the freshness of white peaches. An elegant and well-balanced stickie, this wine tastes fresh, textured and full. In typical Vic Bilh style it has noticeably less sugar and more acidity than Sauternes, a combination that gives it great balance. Pacherenc du Vic Bilh wines have superb balance and are sophisticated and impressive. To be drunk between 1 and 10 years.

Perfect to chill as an aperitif or to accompany desserts such as a simple traditional French apple tart. Also a tremendous match with foies gras, a country style terrine, pates, parfait and Pyrenean style blue and sheep cheeses.

To enjoy this wine at its best remove it from the fridge 30 minutes before drinking.

Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh is distinctly different to Sauterne in that the grapes are not affected by botrytis because the climate is not sufficiently humid. The richness and balance are a result of the grapes being harvested very late having been left to shrivel and concentrate the flavours.

Read about Pacherenc du Vic Bilh
Read about Didier Barre

TERROIR: Over 50 year old vines planted in clay, silt and gravelly soil.

GRAPE VARIETIES: 90% Petit Manseng, 10% Petit Courbu.

CULTIVATION: The grapes are harvested by hand in 3 successive pickings from the beginning of November to mid December in order to intensify the classical fragrances of crystallized fruits and honey.

VINIFICATION:  The maceration of the de-stemmed grape lasts 24 hours followed by pressing and cold stabilization for 10 days. Fermentation in new oak barrels generally lasts for a month.  Aged in barrel for 6 months with regular lees-stirring.