The Producer
Located on the heights of Chavanay, in the heart of the territory of the great wines of the Northern Rhône Valley, the Domaine du Monteillet has been owned by the Montez family since the 17th century. Eight generations of winemakers have succeeded one another, each contributing to the reputation of the estate. Since the late 1990s, it has been Stéphane Montez who has been in charge, after enriching his know-how by vinifying in Australia, California, and South Africa.
The estate covers about 40 hectares spread across several prestigious appellations: Condrieu, Saint-Joseph, Côte-Rôtie, and Vin de Pays. The terroir is mainly composed of steep hillsides, shaped into terraces, with granite soils that give the wines a remarkable mineral tension. The exposure of the vines and the mastery of manual work allow for demanding and precise viticulture.
Today, Stéphane Montez perpetuates the family legacy while infusing it with contemporary energy. He practices sustainable viticulture, limits yields, and creates cuvées that fully express the richness of the Rhône terroir. The whites are of great finesse, particularly in Condrieu, while the reds reveal power and elegance, with long and careful aging.
The Wine
Grape variety: 30% old vines of Marsanne and 70% Roussanne.
Terroir: Granitic
Manual harvest in 23 kg crates.
Vinification: Pneumatic pressing Bucher, destemming.
Malolactic fermentation on lees in oak barrels and demi-muids.
Bâtonnage once every two months, only for natural self-protection.
Aging: 11 months in French oak barrels and demi-muids.
Tasting
Wine of a light straw yellow color leaning towards gold, bright.
Expressive nose on ripe fruits, yellow nectarine, broom, and orange peel.
The palate offers liveliness on attack and a beautiful tension. Light bitterness on the finish.
Food and wine pairing: seafood salad with scallops, freshwater and sea fish, trout, crayfish, sole meunière, and poultry, Saint Marcellin bricks with thyme and chopped hazelnuts.