Domaine de la Courtade - Cuvée Alycastre 2015

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

La Courtade, one of three estates on the magnificent island of Porquerolles, was purchased in 2014 by Édouard Carmignac, manager of the eponymous investment fund and a prominent art collector. Since then, the reception area has undergone major renovations. Indeed, the Carmignac Foundation has taken up residence there to exhibit the owner’s highly eclectic and specialized collection. Renovating the old cellar had not been on the agenda until now, but that seems set to change in the near future. While the wines now feature new, highly creative labels, the overall experience leaves us wanting more. A disappointing development given the magnificent character of the wines prior to the estate’s takeover. Let’s hope that very soon the wine will receive the same attention that Mr. Carmignac devotes to his art. The terroir deserves it.

Guide Hachette des vins

About the estate:

Florent Audibert took over this estate in 2015; it was established in the 1980s on the island of Porquerolles. He manages a 35-hectare vineyard that is organically farmed (certified in 1997).

Guide des Vins Gault & Millau

About the wine:

The wine has a pale gold color with grayish-gold hues and a silvery sheen. Its brilliance suggests freshness, a quality confirmed on the nose with aromas of English sweets, citrus, linden blossom, and Earl Grey. On the palate, the wine is fragrant, refined, and delicate. Its marine acidity adds depth.