Ardè

Vineyard and terroir

The grapes are picked by hand from estate vineyards managed specifically to provide distinctive base wines for sparkling-wine production. Yield is 2.5 kg per vine, equivalent to 95 q/ha.

Vinification

The bunches undergo soft, progressive pressing, with separation into several must fractions. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in steel with selected yeasts. In spring, liqueur de tirage is added and the wine undergoes secondary fermentation in bottle.

Ageing

The wine matures on its lees in bottle before disgorgement. The wine page specifies 18 months, whereas the technical sheet specifies 60 months. Disgorgement is identified as November 2012.

Technical data

Alcohol: 12% vol. Total acidity: 7.0 g/L. Yield: 2.5 kg per vine and 95 q/ha. The stated harvest dates differ: 7–8 September on the wine page and 6–14 September in the technical sheet.

Tasting profile

A soft, inviting perlage introduces an ample aromatic profile. Apple skin and yellow plum are joined by dried fruit, bread crust, chamomile, honey and talc, with subtle balsamic suggestions of mint and medicinal herbs. The technical sheet additionally describes floral and fruity tones with petits fours, toasted almond and freshly baked bread. The palate is crisp, confident and approachable.

Serving and pairing

Suitable as an aperitif or throughout a meal, particularly with fried vegetables and raw seafood. Citrus Bavarian cream is proposed as a more adventurous pairing.