Domaine de Triennes Sainte-Fleur Viognier 2021

Oh yes. This is Viognier with proper Viognier charm. I don't mind saying that Viognier isn't my favourite variety, for you rarely find it as well made as this at the price point. The grape can be a bit oily and flabby - this couldn't be further from that. Classic intense Viognier aromas of apricot, honeysuckle and orange pith, with a delicate lavender and thyme hint on the nose. That all follows onto the palate with peach doing the loudest talking. Lively and rich with a decidedly delicate mineral core. This will be in my fridge perennially. 

If you know, you know... Domaine de Triennes is a partnership formed in 1989 by two of the most famous winemakers on the planet - Aubert de Villaine of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, and Jacques Seysses of Domaine Dujac. These Burgundian superstars produce ethereal Pinot & Chardonnay that sell for hundreds (and frequently thousands) per bottle on release, making the comparative value of this rosé even more compelling. The two bonafide wine hero's viewed Provence as a criminally undervalued landscape from which to make terroir driven, characterful wines. Triennes is the result of their successful foray to the South of France - a breath of fresh air in a region that today is dominated by ubiquitous, big brand rosés.

Situated deep in truffle country, vines have been grown here for two thousand years. The name of the estate comes from the triennia, the festivities held in honour of Bacchus that took place every three years in Roman times.