Villa Blanche Chardonnay is the flagship success wine from Calmel & Joseph, the renowned house from the Languedoc known for its uncompromising focus on quality. This 2025 edition once again demonstrates why this Chardonnay belongs to the absolute top in its price range. Gold at Chardonnay du Monde and an 8.5 in De Grote Hamersma confirm it: this is refinement without the premium price tag.
The grapes originate from carefully selected plots in the Languedoc, with soils of volcanic rock and calcareous clay. The climate is Mediterranean, but thanks to their location at altitude, the grapes retain their freshness. The harvest takes place at night in two phases: first in early August for vibrant acidity, followed by a later harvest for depth and aromatic richness. This unique approach ensures an impressive balance between freshness and complexity.
After complete destemming, the grapes undergo a cold skin maceration of four hours at 5 °C. This is followed by gentle pressing and static settling for 24 hours. The fermentation proceeds slowly and in a controlled manner at 15 °C, spread over different phases. Malolactic conversion is consciously avoided to maintain the tension in the wine. The wine then matures for three months: 70% in stainless steel tanks for freshness, 30% in oak barrels for structure and subtle creaminess.
100% Chardonnay
