Mas de Libian Vin de France Cave Vinum Blanc 2023

Mas de Libian Cave Vinum Blanc is a small-batch biodynamic white from the southern Rhône, built around Roussanne and old-vine Clairette.

Mas de Libian sits on the right bank of the Rhône at Saint-Marcel-d'Ardeche, where Hélène Thibon farms biodynamically and works with very low yields. This white is bottled as Vin de France rather than under an appellation, which gives Thibon freedom with the blend. Roussanne and Viognier are joined by Clairette planted in the 1940s, with small amounts of Vermentino and Chenin Blanc added in recent years for freshness. Everything is hand-harvested and cropped low. The Clairette and Roussanne are raised in Stockinger cask after a brief maceration on skins, which brings tang, grip and structure rather than colour, while the aromatic varieties keep the wine lifted. It is a good demonstration of how serious the whites of the southern Rhône can be when yields are held down and the winemaking stays hands-off.

Drink over the next three to five years with goat's cheese, grilled fish or a terrine, and do not be afraid of a little garlic. Serve at 10 to 12 degrees.

*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.