Description
Domaine des Orchis, Mondeuse “Quintessence”
One of the many things that make Savoie wines so appealing is their “hard won” quality, wrung as they are from steep, rock-strewn slopes in the French Alps. The unforgiving landscape and often high altitudes make for some challenging viticulture—but, then again, vines that struggle often produce the most compelling wines. It takes a certain kind of pioneer spirit to embrace viticulture in the Savoie, which Philippe Héritier has done wholeheartedly at his tiny Domaine des Orchis. Inspired by local eminences like Charles Trosset and Michel Grisard, Héritier headed to the cru village of Frangy (well north of the string of crus along the Combe de Savoie) to set up shop. He’s Certified Organic and employing many biodynamic practices in his four hectares of vineyards. What a find!
The wine displays a characteristically dark black/magenta hue, with with aromas and flavors that suggest everything from Côte-Rôtie to Cru Beaujolais to Saumur-Champigny. Scents of Damson plum, blackcurrant, violets, tapenade, graphite, and crushed rocks leap from the glass once it’s had a chance to take on air. It is medium-bodied and full of mineral grip and vibrant freshness—an absolute joy to drink—and will pair well with well-charred steaks, burgers, etc. off the grill.
