Style
Type
Still
Winemaker
M. Denis Barbara
Appellation
Saint-Pourçain
Varieties
Chardonnay, Tressallier
Viticulture
The “lieu-dit” Vin D’Alon is a derivation of the word “vallon” and is a vineyard whose reputation was established in the time of Henry IV. The distinguishing local grape variety is the Sacy, known in Saint-Pourçain as Tressallier. The variety is associated with the Yonne where it was at one time widely planted and rivaled the Chardonnay grape. Interestingly, historical references mention that the Sacy grape produced far better results in Saint-Pourçain than elsewhere. As in the Yonne, the Tressallier has been eclipsed in Saint-Pourçain by Chardonnay and today, only 53 hectares of Tressallier remain.
Vineyard
Denis Barbara farms several separate parcels of land totaling ~20ac/8ha
Vinification
Denis Barbara produces his “Vin D’Alon” cuvée from a blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Tressallier. The Tressallier vines, which are naturally quite productive, are pruned to 7 or 8 bunches per vine and yield an average of 30h per hectare. Fermentation of both varietals is carried out in temperature controlled stainless steel vats at very low temperatures. All the wines remain on their lees until the blending and bottling is done in the spring.
Features
Cork
Available Sizes (L)
0.750
Distribution Area
New Jersey and New York
Shelf Talkers
Tasting Note
Pale with green highlights, the wine displays floral notes, tangy peach and apricot, lemon rind, and red plum, that are lifted by a stony minerally and a squeeze of lemon juice. Finishes dry and long.
2 Commerce Dr. Suite 3 Moorestown, NJ 08057
Office 800.245.0184
Fax 856.985.5848
