Clos Larrouyat Vin de France Phoenix 500ml 2024

Clos Larrouyat Phoenix is a sweet Petit Manseng from Jurançon country, labelled Vin de France because the fruit does not reach the alcohol the appellation demands.

Jurançon lies in the foothills of the Pyrenees south of Pau, where Petit Manseng's thick skins let the berries hang into late autumn and shrivel on the vine rather than rot. Maxime and Lucie Salharang farm a cool, north-facing site at Clos Larrouyat that has always struggled to reach the 12% alcohol the moelleux appellation requires, so from the 2022 vintage they simply changed the label to Vin de France. That constraint shapes the wine: it is a more delicate, almost Germanic reading of late-harvest Petit Manseng than the chewier, marrowy Jurançon norm, with the sweetness kept in check by the variety's naturally punchy acidity. Made entirely from Petit Manseng and bottled in 500ml, it is discreet and fine yet still luscious, finishing with a waxy, honeyed lift.

Drinking now and good for five years or more. Serve at 8-10°C with a cheese plate, particularly blue or washed-rind, rather than with dessert.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.