# Métairie d’Alon Chardonnay Le Village (2022)

- **Producer:** Abbotts & Delaunay
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €21
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 10–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, banana, lemon, cloves, pastry, vanilla

## About this wine

Métairie d’Alon Chardonnay Le Village 2022 is an organic Chardonnay from the IGP Haute Vallée de l'Aude in Languedoc-Roussillon, France. Produced by Abbotts & Delaunay, a joint venture founded by Australian Nerida Abbott and Burgundian winemaker Laurent Delaunay, the wine reflects a philosophy of precision and respect for terroir. The vineyard is situated in a mountainous area, contributing to the wine's character. The producer emphasizes meticulous vineyard selection and restrained winemaking techniques, aiming for elegance and expression.

## Interesting facts

- Certified organic vineyard practices are employed.
- A portion of the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation for added complexity.
- The wine is aged on its lees for 8 months, adding texture.
- Silver medals from International Wine Challenge and IWSC 2024.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium+ body and balanced acidity complement richer dishes without overpowering them. Its subtle oak influence and creamy texture pair well with dairy-based sauces and proteins, while its fruit notes can bridge to vegetable and cheese pairings.

## Wine making process

The Métairie d’Alon Chardonnay Le Village 2022 is crafted from hand-harvested, organically grown Chardonnay grapes. The winemaking process involves whole bunch pressing, with initial and final pressings discarded. Static settling is employed for 24 hours. A significant portion of the wine (approximately 75%) undergoes fermentation and subsequent aging for 8 months on its lees in oak barrels, including demi-muids and older barriques, with some stirring. The remaining 25% is fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures to retain freshness. Partial malolactic fermentation (around 20%) is also utilized to contribute to the wine's complexity and softer acidity.