Matilda Tournon

17 Mar Matilda Tournon

grapes: Viognier (85%), Marsanne (15%)
region: Victoria

Frenchman Michel Chapoutier is famed for the outstanding wines he produces in France’s northern Rhône Valley, where he produces world-class reds from the Syrah grape, and whites from the Marsanne, Roussane and Viognier grapes. In 1997, he established additional vineyards in Victoria, Australia, where he continued to work with these same famous grapes. (Syrah and Shiraz are the same grape.)

As a side note, you’ll notice this this label is printed in Braille. The story goes that in 1993, a blind French singer named Gilbert Montagné told his friend (Michel Chapoutier) about his difficulties in picking out wine in wine shops. Ever since 1996, all of Chapoutier’s wines have included the wine’s vintage, appellation and color in Braille.

This particular white blend of grapes is among my favorite white blends. Marsanne and Viognier combine to make an intense and full-bodied wine of rich texture, with notes of lime, grapefruit, orchard fruit, baking spicy, herbs, and minerally notes. If you are craving a full-bodied white wine, this wine is for you!

Because of this wine’s full-bodied and multi-flavored nature, the pairing options are just about infinite. Shrimp and grits, scallops, fuller flavored fish dishes, roast poultry, pork, stir fry and sharp cheeses are just a few ideas for meals with this tasty wine!

tasting notes:
“Stacks a rich parfait of spicy pear and grapefruit flavors over lively acidity, stretching the structure into a supple wrapping. Impressive for the purity and precision of the flavors. Viognier and Marsanne. Drink now through 2020.”

Wine Spectator 91