Les Calcinaires is the entry point to Domaine Gauby's range, and it remains one of the best value whites in the south of France. The blend brings together Grenache Blanc, Chardonnay, Macabeu and Vermentino from vines of roughly twenty to fifty years of age, grown on the limestone, clay and schist soils around Calce in Roussillon.
The Gauby family farms about forty five hectares of high vineyards here, cooled by winds coming down off the Pyrenees. Gérard Gauby was among the first growers in Roussillon to convert to organic and biodynamic farming, and the estate has spent decades planting trees and hedges to rebuild biodiversity in what had become a monoculture. The wines are fermented with native yeasts and handled with a light touch.
The style is fresh and beautifully aromatic. White peach, citrus and green apple lift out of the glass alongside white flowers, fennel and a chalky, saline mineral note, and the palate is textural without ever feeling heavy. Serve it well chilled with seafood, salads or grilled vegetables.
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