Domaine Mourchon "La Source" Cotes du Rhone Blanc 2021
Domaine Mourchon "La Source" Cotes du Rhone Blanc 2021
Seguret, Rhone Valley, France
Couldn't load pickup availability
Share
-
Tasting Notes
The 2021 Domaine Mourchon "La Source" Côtes du Rhône Blanc is a delightful expression of Southern Rhône elegance and complexity. This aromatic white blend showcases the region’s distinct terroir with a harmonious mix of Rhône varieties.
On the nose, vibrant aromas of white peach, apricot, and delicate floral notes greet the senses, alongside a subtle hint of citrus zest. The Viognier lends a rich, perfumed character, while Grenache Blanc and Roussanne provide a refreshing minerality, offering layers of depth and complexity.
The palate is a beautiful balance of richness and freshness, with ripe stone fruit flavors—peach and apricot—dancing alongside lively citrus notes. A touch of honeyed sweetness adds roundness, while the cool climate of the region imparts a crisp, clean finish that lingers.If the wine had been aged in oak, it would likely lend itself to more viscous and unctuous flavors, but the use of stainless steel preserves a refreshing and clean crisp quality. The wine's acidity ensures an elegant structure, making it wonderfully food-friendly and versatile.
This wine embodies the perfect combination of fruit, freshness, and minerality, offering a beautifully layered tasting experience that is both approachable and refined. Ideal for sipping on its own or paired with light seafood dishes, fresh salads, or goat cheese. -
Story
Domaine de Mourchon is located in the scenic hills of the Southern Rhône Valley, near the charming village of Séguret. It was established in 1998 by the McKinlay family, originally from Scotland. Walter and Ronnie McKinlay purchased the property after falling in love with the region and its wines. Their journey into winemaking was driven by a passion for wine and a desire to create high-quality Rhône-style wines.
The estate is family-owned and operated, with a focus on sustainable farming practices. The winery primarily produces wines that reflect the character of the region’s unique terroir. The winemaking approach emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the natural qualities of the grapes to shine through.
Domaine de Mourchon specializes in crafting both red and white wines, with a reputation for Côtes du Rhône blends. They use traditional Rhône varietals such as Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Viognier. Their philosophy combines respect for traditional methods with modern techniques to enhance consistency and quality.
The winery began with a mission to highlight the potential of the vineyards surrounding Séguret, which had been historically overlooked despite their excellent growing conditions. Domaine de Mourchon now produces critically acclaimed wines and has become a notable example of what dedication and care can achieve in winemaking.
-
Somm Notes
Domaine Mourchon is a bit of a hidden gem in the Southern Rhône Valley. Located in the near the picturesque village of Séguret, it is often overshadowed by more famous appellations like Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas. Due to its proximity to these famous appellations, Seguret shares some of the same terroir, but escapes the hefty price tags.
The McKinlay family fell in love with this region of France, perhaps it was due to Seguret’s picturesque village, but once they decided to settle and produce wine, it became a family owned and operated affair. As a smaller producing winery, the McKinlay family is very much hands on, employing sustainability practices in the vineyard and the winery. Due to its underrated location, Seguret often flies under the radar for many enthusiasts, but discerning sippers understand that quality can also come from areas surrounding renown appellations.
The 2021 “La Source” Cotes du Rhone Blanc vintage benefited from a combination of warm, sunny days and cool nights, which preservds the acidity in the grapes. This results in a wine that is both fresh and full-bodied, with a delicate balance of fruit and mineral notes. The cooling influence of the Mistral wind helps to maintain the wine’s refreshing qualities, ensuring it’s well-structured and vibrant. Since the wine came from 35+ year old vines, the grapes have a level of depth and complexity that make it an interesting sip!
So so easy to sip on its own, but would also be a perfect spring sipper, pair with salads, fresh fish, or white meats - I’m thinking fish tacos with a fruit salsa.
-
Region
Domaine Mourchon Terroir Near Séguret: A Unique Southern Rhône Gem
Domaine Mourchon’s estate, located near the picturesque village of Séguret in the Southern Rhône Valley, boasts a unique terroir that plays a crucial role in crafting its exceptional wines. The vineyards are situated on steep, sun-drenched slopes at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, a dramatic limestone mountain range. This location provides an ideal environment for growing grapes, with the perfect balance of sunlight, cooling winds, and diverse soils.
Soil Composition: The estate's vineyards feature a mix of clay, limestone, and grey sandstone soils. These well-drained soils help retain heat during the day and slowly release it at night, promoting even ripening and enhancing the concentration of flavors in the grapes.
Microclimates & Elevation: The steep slopes create varied microclimates within the vineyard, ensuring that different grape varieties receive optimal sunlight and protection from the Mistral winds, which help reduce humidity and prevent disease.
Old Vines: Domaine Mourchon’s vines are between 25 to 30 years old, with deep root systems that tap into the nutrient-rich soils. The result is lower yields, but highly concentrated fruit, bringing depth and complexity to their wines.
Mistral Winds: The region's iconic Mistral wind is a key factor in the terroir of Domaine Mourchon, as it helps maintain healthy vine growth by reducing humidity and preventing disease, allowing the grapes to develop rich, pure flavors.
The unique terroir of Domaine Mourchon, with its combination of optimal soil, climate, and old vines, creates wines that are both complex and balanced, reflecting the true essence of the Southern Rhône. Whether crafting their signature red blends or aromatic whites, the estate’s wines are a true expression of the region's terroir.