The organic Chardonnay grows on Villa Noria's own estate near Montagnac, in the heart of the Hérault in the Languedoc.
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Location / Origin: The estate is located near Pézenas, between the Mediterranean Sea and the higher elevations of the Southern French interior. The coastal influence brings cooling breezes to the sunny vineyards and supports the fresh side of the grapes.
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Soil: The Chardonnay is grown on clay-limestone soils. Clay can retain moisture during dry periods, while the calcareous subsoil provides drainage and supports even ripening.
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Climate & Influences: The Mediterranean climate provides plenty of sun and sufficient warmth for ripe fruit expression. The proximity to the sea moderates conditions and helps preserve freshness in the grapes.
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Vineyard Management: Villa Noria practices organic farming and agroforestry, where vines, trees, and natural vegetation form a more diverse ecosystem. Hedges around the vineyards provide extra protection and habitat for insects and other animals.
The entire process was developed to preserve the aromatic properties and texture of Chardonnay without dealcoholizing the wine afterwards.
How is 0.0% created without dealcoholization? A proprietary levain of indigenous yeasts and lactic acid bacteria allows the must to ferment without forming alcohol.
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Harvest & Selection: The Chardonnay is harvested at night so that the grapes remain cool and retain their fresh aromas during transport to the cellar.
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Fermentation: After destemming and crushing, the grapes undergo 12 hours of cold maceration at 3 °C to extract extra aromatic finesse. After pressing, the must ferments with Villa Noria's natural levain, followed by filtration, pasteurization, and bottling. Thanks to this finishing process, no preservatives, sulfites, or added flavorings are required.
A single grape variety forms the entire foundation and gives this alcohol-free fermentation sufficient fruit, texture, and recognizability.
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100% Chardonnay – Languedoc: Chardonnay naturally provides a broad structure and creamy texture, ensuring the drink retains a full-bodied mouthfeel even without alcohol. The gentle processing allows the aromatic character of the grape to shine through clearly.
