IGP Ardeche: Viognier 'Gres Du Trias' 13.5% 75cl Regional France a first fill Oloroso sherry

a first fill Oloroso sherry butt that yielded a remarkable 644 bottles at its hugely potent natural cask strength of 60

The wine is made from the traditional Kisi grape grown in the villages of Akhmeta district in south west Kakheti

for purposes of solidarity within the Trappist Order

It’s a blend that ultimately surprised us in its components of 90% Syrah

The malted barley would have been dried over fires fuelled by peat imparting a smokiness to the new make spirit

IGP Ardeche: Viognier 'Gres Du Trias' 13.5% 75cl Regional France a first fill Oloroso sherryThis Viognier from the Ardche merits special commendation as it is a difficult grape to grow and vinify, and this version from Vignerons Ardchois has lovely exotic fruit characteristics and a finesse that belies its modest price tag. Light enough to be drunk on its own as an aperitif, this wine has enough weight to take fish, poultry and substantial salads in its stride.