“Orchis”, Sémillon, Vin de France Blanc

Christophe's sensuous and mineral-driven "Orchis" comes from a parcel of 20-year-old Sémillon planted in limestone-rich soils just outside of Saint-Emilion. Grapes are pressed whole-cluster, fermenting spontaneously and aging 12 months in used 500-liter oak barrels before being bottled without fining or filtration, and with just a homeopathic dose of sulfur. Luscious and broad on the palate with notes of mandarin orange and vanilla bean, this wine possesses a frank minerality and a tangy acidity which keep it harmonious despite its richness.