Description
Tired of the same old round of Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc? Pep up your palate with lovely, racy, multi-layered wine from one of the most exciting best value wine regions in France.
The high valley of the Ardèche lies an hour's drive uphill from the Rhône and until recently, never much visited 'cept by folk that were lost (hence it provided ideal cover for the Marquisard - the French Resistance - in WW2). These days though, by virtue of its ideal climate for vine growing, it has become a haven for dynamic winemakers seeking freedom from the restrictive AOC system. Even famous name growers form the Rhône and Burgundy are diversifying their interests and investing heavily here.
Vallon is a refreshingly different blend of premium varieties. 75% is the apricot and white pepper-scented Grenache Blanc. The balance, a judicious combination of Viognier, Marsanne and Sauvignon Blanc. Its cleverly crafted by Christelle Delamalmaison and her talented sidekick for the 2006 vintage, Greek-born Aussie Zane Zatzikis.
A delightful mouthful of flavours - freshly grapy, honeyed and peachy - undercut by lemony freshness. A youthful, modern wine that's very tasty to drink on its own, yet an ideal partner for seared scallops, grilled seabass with braised fennel, light salads or roast chicken.