Domaine Monier “Viognier-Roussanne”

VDP des collines rhodaniennes, france  |  2021

The wines of the Northern Rhône Valley are synonymous with red wine made from Syrah. Yet there is a whole world of white wine to be discovered, and we want to help you on that journey.

One of the names to known in the world of Northern Rhône wines is that of Jean-Pierre Monier. A third-generation farmer in the lieu-dit of Brunieux, in the hills above Saint-Desirat, Jean-Pierre Monier is a standout producer in Saint-Joseph. Not only does he produce grapes, he also grows cherries, apricots and peaches. From 1977 to 2001, he sold his fruit to the local cooperative, before starting his own winery. 

Monier has practiced biodynamic farming since 1996, and his wines undergo natural vinification. Heavily influenced by the teaching and research of the German biodynamic guru Maria Thun, Jean-Pierre earned certification in 2006. 

While Monier may be more well known for his red wines, his white wines are excellent examples of classic Rhône varietals. Viognier is a speciality of the Northern Rhône, showcasing a combination of richness, fruit and minerality. Roussanne, while more well known in the South of France, adds some body and texture to this blend. 

The fruit for this wine come from two high elevation vineyards, planted in a combination of granite, limestone and sand. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks, blended and aged on their lees until bottling.

Beautiful aromas of peach, almond skin, citrus oil and spice. A medium-bodied white, perfect for winter drinking, and a great match for lobster, langoustines, or even a tagine with chicken, green olives and apricots.

We received the only 12 bottles imported to Illinois this year, and wanted to share them with our wine club members.