# Vin de Pays de Vaucluse Blanc "Selected by Kermit Lynch" (2023)

- **Producer:** Leydier et Fils (Domaine de Durban)
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Viognier, Chardonnay
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €14
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, apricot, stone fruit, blossom

## About this wine

Crafted in the Vaucluse region of the Southern Rhône, this cuvée represents a partnership between the Leydier family of Domaine de Durban and importer Kermit Lynch. The grapes originate from a dedicated 2.5-hectare plot of 18-year-old vines planted on clay and limestone soils. Positioned just outside the official 1937 Côtes du Rhône AOC boundaries, these vineyards yield exceptional freshness and regional authenticity at an accessible value.

## Interesting facts

- The Leydier family originally kept these vineyards for personal consumption before partnering with Kermit Lynch.
- The grapes undergo carbonic maceration prior to pressing to enhance vibrant, fresh aromatic characteristics.
- The vineyard sits just outside the original 1937 Côtes du Rhône AOC boundaries, offering great value.

## Food pairing

The lively acidity and bright stone fruit nature of this Viognier and Chardonnay blend provide an ideal contrast to creamy soft cheeses and enhance delicate white fish and shellfish without dominating their flavors.

## Wine making process

The grapes are 100% hand-harvested following sustainable farming practices under Haute Valeur Environnementale (HVE) principles. In the cellar, grapes undergo fermentation via carbonic maceration in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by gentle pneumatic pressing. The wine is aged for six months in stainless steel tanks prior to bottling to preserve its pure fruit expression and crisp balance.