Diplomate d'Empire, Blanc VdF 2019

The Diplomate d'Empire is a white wine of character from Domaine Abbatucci: dense, layered and carried by an energy that keeps it in motion. In the glass, a pale, brilliant greenish white gold; on the nose, intense notes of white and yellow flowers, maquis herbs and plenty of fruit, of cherimoya, fresh pear and white peach. This is joined by a fine acidic freshness reminiscent of yellow gooseberries and mirabelle plums, of lightly sweetened lemon, grapefruit and lemon zest, underscored by a touch of iodine.

The estate lies in the Taravo Valley at 150 metres above sea level. The vines grow on granitic sandy soils, with the plots facing north and northeast. This is the source of the freshness and tension that define this wine.

The base is Vermentinu, complemented by Brustiano, Bianco Gentile, Genovese and Rossola Bianca. All come from the ampelographic collection of eighteen native varieties that Antoine Abbatucci assembled in the 1960s. The vineyards are farmed biodynamically: horse ploughing instead of a tractor, a flock of sheep for ground cover, preparations made from medicinal herbs, all work carried out according to the biodynamic calendar. Harvesting is done by hand into small crates, followed by meticulous selection in the cellar. 13.5% vol., vinified dry.

Enormously intense and dense, with a silky texture. An immediate mouth-watering freshness paired with iodine and salt releases a mineral tension, underscored by peppery bitter notes of almond and grapefruit. The fine acidity brings lemon, lightly candied lemon zest, maquis and wild herbs.

Jean-Charles Abbatucci took over the estate in 1992, converted to biodynamic farming in 2000, and received Demeter certification in 2005. The label carries the Demeter logo.