Château Ramon, Monbazillac, 2022, (75cl) Monbazillac (AOC)

'One-Liner'
A lusciously honeyed Monbazillac with candied citrus, ripe apricot and tropical fruit – richly sweet, yet beautifully lifted by fresh, zesty acidity.

Tasting Note
Golden yellow in the glass, with fragrant honey, candied orange and dried apricot joined by pineapple, mango and a subtle touch of saffron. The palate is smooth, concentrated and voluptuously sweet, unfolding with ripe stone fruit, tropical fruit and gently floral notes. A bright seam of citrus acidity cuts neatly through the richness, carrying the wine towards a long, elegant finish of honey, orange peel and soft spice.

Country: France
Region: Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Sub-Region: Monbazillac AOC
Grape(s): 80% Sémillon, 10% Muscadelle, 10% Sauvignon Blanc
ABV: 12.5%
Friendly: Vegan, Vegetarian, Sustainable

Awards & Critics' Scores
Gold Medal – Concours de Bordeaux – Vins d’Aquitaine

The Story
Château Ramon is a family-run vineyard set on the clay and limestone slopes overlooking the Dordogne Valley, in the heart of Monbazillac. Sémillon forms the backbone of the wine, supported by Muscadelle and Sauvignon Blanc, with the grapes left on the vine until affected by noble rot – the natural process that gently shrivels the berries and concentrates their sugars, acidity and flavour. Harvesting takes place by hand over several passes through the vineyard, allowing only suitably concentrated grapes to be selected. The result is a classic expression of Monbazillac – richly fruited and honeyed, but kept lively and graceful by Chenin-like freshness from the Bordeaux white varieties.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Duck liver parfait with caramelised apples and toasted brioche
- Vegetarian: Walnut tart
- Vegan: Vegan apple tarte tatin with orange and cinnamon