Alquimia Vin de voile L2021/2022 VdF

An oxidative white wine of great elegance. The barrels were not topped up after filling, allowing a layer of flor to form – hence Vin de voile. In the glass, medium straw yellow; on opening, ester notes appear at first but dissipate quickly with air. This wine therefore belongs in a decanter.

Montner in Roussillon, on the northern slope of Força Real, sheltered from the scorching Mediterranean sun. Marjorie and Stéphane Gallet farm 25 hectares across twenty parcels there, on clay-and-silica schist soils. The vertical structure of the rock stores water for dry periods, while parcels up to 400 metres in altitude ensure cool nights. Average yield is 15 hectolitres per hectare. The estate is biodynamic certified.

A blend of Grenache Gris and Macabeu, pressed as whole clusters. Aged in used barriques and tonneaux from the 2021 and 2022 vintages. Stéphane Gallet brings his expertise in oxidative ageing to this wine, which he also applies to the estate's Maury.

Dry, invigorating and lively. Saline and fruity at once, with hazelnuts, caramelised apples, vanilla and honey, never coming across as heavy or ponderous. The acidity from the schist terroir preserves freshness, while the texture remains full and velvety. On the nose beforehand, salted almonds and walnuts, candied orange peel, overripe apples, biscuit, white miso and pine resin.

Grilled sea bream with lemon and fennel, oven-roasted potatoes with rosemary, capers and lemon wedges, or sushi with aged soy sauce and fresh wasabi.

Marjorie Gallet learned the fundamentals of biodynamic work from Gérard Gauby; she has worked alongside Stéphane since 2008. The name Roc des Anges comes from a white quartz rock found among their vineyards.