Presentation
Located just outside Montpellier, on a terrace of rolled pebbles, Domaine D’Isnard is a family-run estate led by Ludovic Rouquairol. Heir to a winemaking tradition passed down through seven generations, he continues to honor this heritage while modernizing practices to enhance the potential of this exceptional terroir. The estate spans 40 hectares bathed in Mediterranean sunshine, offering ideal conditions for cultivating emblematic red grape varieties such as Syrah, Grenache, and Carignan. The vines, deeply rooted in stony soils, benefit from excellent water regulation, ensuring optimal ripeness of the grapes. The wines of Domaine D’Isnard reveal a generous and finely structured bouquet, marked by notes of dark fruits, spices, and garrigue. Carefully crafted vinifications highlight the balance between power and freshness, resulting in cuvées with silky tannins and beautiful aromatic complexity. A must-visit estate for lovers of authentic and expressive Mediterranean wines.
Location
Located just outside Montpellier, Domaine D’Isnard benefits from a typical Mediterranean terroir composed of rolled pebbles, red clay, and limestone. This well-drained soil, combined with southeast exposure, allows for slow and even ripening of Chardonnay while preserving its natural freshness. The warm, sunny climate enhances the grape’s aromatic expression.
Terroir
Stony, well-drained soils with red clay and limestone on gently sloping terrain.
In the vineyard
The vines are cultivated with respect for the environment, using careful soil management, controlled cover cropping, and minimal inputs. Yields are kept around 50 hl/ha to ensure a balanced concentration and freshness. Grapes are harvested early in the morning to preserve their aromas and vibrancy.
Harvest
Manual harvest with early morning picking to retain freshness.
Winemaking
Gentle direct pressing of whole clusters. Cold settling for 24 hours. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at low temperatures (15–17°C) to preserve Chardonnay’s primary aromas. No malolactic fermentation is carried out to maintain tension and freshness. Aged on fine lees for 4 months with light stirring.
Ageing
Aged in stainless steel tanks for 4 months on fine lees. No oak ageing to preserve the grape’s purity and aromatic precision.
Varietal
Chardonnay : 100%
Serving
Serving temperature: 10 to 12°C
Ageing potential
2 to 3 years
Tasting
This Chardonnay displays a pale yellow robe with silvery highlights. The nose is expressive and delicate, offering aromas of white flowers, candied lemon, green apple, and a hint of hazelnut. On the palate, the attack is lively, the texture smooth and balanced, with refreshing acidity and a slightly saline finish.
Food pairings
This Chardonnay pairs beautifully with grilled fish, seafood, composed salads, and vegetarian dishes. It also complements fresh cheeses and herb-roasted poultry, making it a versatile choice for both casual meals and refined cuisine.