Rimauresq Cru Classe Blanc, Cotes de Provence [Organic] (6 Bottle Case)

The exceptional terroir of this renowned estate is recognised through its Cru Classé status and results in wines of elegance and complexity with long-term cellaring potential. The estate encompasses 57 hectares of prime vineyards with an average vine age of 40 years. The vineyards are located at an altitude of 140 - 190 metres, situated on the harsh mineral soils at the foothills of the Maures Massif.The vines benefit from the Mistral winds, but are protected by the sheltering effects of the mountain from the harsh Mediterranean sun. It is this shade that allows a longer ripening period and better fruit development in the crucial weeks prior to harvest. Only organic fertilisers are used. The terroir itself is of crystalline rock with sand and gravelly soil. It is this diversity that allows Rimauresq to excel in all three colours of wine. Replacement planting is ensuring an increased vine density of up to 5,000 vines per hectare in an ongoing drive to improve quality.A combination of mechanical and manual fruit harvesting is carried out during the early morning to benefit from the cool nighttime temperatures. Bunches are then crushed and de-stemmed at the modern and gravity-fed winery before the grapes undergo cold maceration on their skins for several hours prior to fermentation at a low temperature. Grapes are pressed and the free run juice separated prior to fermentation at a low temperature for two to three weeks. After fermentation, the wine is left on its lees for three weeks with regular 'batonnage', improving the aromas. The wine does not undergo malolactic fermentation so as to preserve its acidity.