Domaine Belema Epsilon Virginis 2022

Grape: Altesse
Vintage: 2022
Type: White

This white wine is crafted by Yann Pernuit from young altesse vines grown in the rugged Savoie region. The fruit is cultivated on steep limestone scree slopes that naturally restrict vine yields and help retain high structural acidity. The hand-picked grapes are direct-pressed and fermented naturally with wild yeasts in a combination of sandstone amphorae and terracotta eggs. It matures undisturbed for one full year and is bottled entirely unfined, unfiltered, and without any added sulfur.

It pours a pale straw color, releasing delicate aromas of fresh citrus, white orchard blossoms, and wet limestone. The wine is energetic and fluid, balancing a surprising mid-palate fleshiness with a chiseled mineral backbone. Clean flavors of green apple and white peach develop nicely as the liquid breathes. A vertical wave of alpine acidity cuts through the texture, keeping the mouthfeel dry. It finishes with a lingering impression of stone fruits and crushed gravel.