2019 Louis Latour - Chardonnay Ardeche HALF BOTTLE (375ml)

Maison Louis Latour has been rooted in Burgundy for over two centuries, building a reputation as one of the region's most respected négociant-éléveurs while also pushing beyond its borders to explore new terroirs. In 1979 the house looked south to the Ardèche valley, drawn by its clay and limestone soils, and began producing Chardonnay there using the same techniques applied to its Burgundy wines. Louis Latour has also been a long-standing advocate for sustainable viticulture, holding ISO 14001 environmental certification since 2003.

This Chardonnay is grown in the Ardèche, along the western edge of the Rhône valley, on soils that echo those found further north in Burgundy. Following harvest, the juice ferments in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and goes through full malolactic fermentation, then rests in steel for eight to ten months before bottling. The absence of oak keeps the wine's focus on fresh fruit rather than toast or spice, resulting in a lighter, more immediate style than the house's Grand Ardèche bottling.

The color is pale yellow with green highlights, and the aromas lean toward pear, white peach, and citrus blossom. On the palate the wine feels light and refreshing, with clean acidity and a crisp, unadorned finish. It works well as an aperitif or alongside charcuterie, grilled white fish, or a simple green salad.