France

Leathery & Peppery

As at many family domaines with deep roots in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, vigneron Alexandre Favier was by his own account “raised in the vineyards”: Alexandre’s grandfather, Noël Sabon, is from one of the best known winemaking families in the region. Alexandre himself began his viticultural studies in Orange at the age of fifteen and passed the exams four years later in 2001. A year later (at age twenty!) he took over winemaking duties at the domaine when his father experienced health problems. Today, Domaine Chante Cigale is one of the most important family estates of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

This wine comes from 30-year-old vines grown in clay-limestone soil, composed of 80% Grenache and 20% Carignan. Hand-harvested with careful grape selection, it undergoes a short maceration of about a week and is matured in tanks on fine lees. The result is a brilliant red wine with a fresh nose of red fruits, balanced acidity, and soft tannins.

Best served chilled, it pairs well with grilled meats, cold dishes, cheese, and even chocolate cake. Ideal for enjoying young, it has an aging potential of 2–3 years.

Raised amidst the vineyards, Alexandre Favier is part of a long line of winemakers in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. His grandfather, Noël Sabon, hails from one of the region’s most renowned winemaking families. Alexandre began his viticultural studies at the age of fifteen in Orange, completing his exams by 2001. Just a year later, at the age of twenty, he assumed full winemaking responsibilities at Domaine Chante Cigale when his father’s health declined. Today, Domaine Chante Cigale stands as one of the most important family estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

The Cicada Blanc is an unusual yet harmonious blend of Grenache Blanc (40%), Viognier (30%), and Picpoul Blanc (30%). The Grenache Blanc and Picpoul are sourced from clay-limestone soils in Richerenches, Vaucluse, while the Viognier comes from the Northern Rhône. Vinified in stainless steel with a short one-week maceration, the result is an easy-drinking, unoaked French table wine with citrus and pear aromas, a soft, rounded palate, and a silky mineral finish.

Savour this delicious wine with Coconut flavoured Thai and Vietnamese dishes, or as a delicious foil to barbecued or grilled mackerel.