The nose is pretty and delicate, just hints of hedgerow flowers. The flavours are nuanced and refined rather than overt. Careful use of oak adds texture and vinosity to this very drinkable white.

La Ruchette Dorée Côtes du Rhône Blanc has been made by Julien Dugas, a true southern Rhône winemaker. Local botanicals have been illustrated on the front label and reflect the ‘garrigue’ of the Southern Rhône vineyards – rosemary, lavender, olives – a defining scent evocative of the area. In the Southern Rhône white wines feel as though they have been overshadowed by red wines somewhat. The white wines of the southern Rhône are heavily influenced by the warm Mediterranean climate. The long sun-drenched days typically make white wines that are relatively full-bodied and sumptuous. The grapes were sourced from different terroirs throughout the southern Rhône valley to create a wonderfully balanced Côtes du Rhône Blanc. The Grenache comes from the North of the Rhône Valley to provide freshness and fresh fruit qualities. The Marsanne and Clairette were sourced from warmer sites to the south, to give the wine body and riper fruit characters. Grapes are picked separately in the cooler daylight hours for gentle pressing the same morning and fermented at a low temperature in 3 year old barrels for 6 months.

A lovely apéritif or with light starters and grilled fish.