Description

Erwan Masse

’s L'Invitation Viognier:

• Blend: Viognier (100%)
• Colour: Pale yellow
• Nose: Aromatic, generous with stone fruit notes, aromas of peach and apricot.
• Palate: Aromatic with good length and a hint of acidity.

The estate

You may not yet be familiar with Erwan Masse, but his name will soon be on the lips of Rhône wine enthusiasts. Established in 2017, his estate is located in Sarras in the Ardèche, within the Saint-Joseph appellation. The 3.5 hectares of Syrah, Grenache, Viognier and Marsanne are situated on a plateau at an altitude of around 350 metres. The shallow granite soils allow for slow ripening, moderate alcohol levels and lovely acidity. Erwan Masse’s wines (L’invitation, Marsanne, Parenthèse, La Robe Rouge, Saint-Joseph) are simply luminous and precise, prioritising fruit and finesse over extraction or excessive ageing.

From organic farming to agroforestry

Although the organic certification process began in 2021, the vineyard has been managed using organic farming methods from the outset. The soil is sown with cover crops, and the rows are weeded mechanically. On the hillside plots, the soil is worked by horse. Since 2020, Erwan Masse has been planting using agroforestry methods, combining vines with apple or pear trees on the same plot. Ultimately, the estate is not expected to exceed 5 hectares. The harvest is carried out by hand, as are many of the tasks on the estate, and the winemaking is minimalist.

What to eat with Erwan Masse’s Viognier L’Invitation?

• Aperitif
• Foie gras on toast
• Goat’s cheese such as Rigotte or Picodon