Chateau d'Aydie - Ode d'Aydie blanc 2023

For nearly a century, Château d'Aydie has been the benchmark estate of Madiran, with four generations of the Laplace family championing the region's distinctive terroir since 1927. Situated in the rolling foothills of the Pyrenees, the estate spans approximately 58 hectares across a mosaic of clay-limestone, clay-gravel and clay-pebble soils, allowing each parcel to express a unique character. Long recognized as one of the great ambassadors of Southwest France, the family has played a pivotal role in elevating both the Madiran and Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh appellations while remaining steadfast in its commitment to sustainable viticulture and meticulous vineyard management. At the heart of the estate is Tannat, the region's iconic variety, complemented by Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon for the reds, while the white vineyards are planted to Petit Manseng, Petit Courbu, Arrufiac and Gros Manseng. The result is a portfolio of wines that balances Madiran's renowned structure and longevity with remarkable freshness, precision and sense of place.

The Ode d’Aydie blanc — a beautiful blend of 70% Petit Manseng and 30% Gros Manseng — pours a brilliant golden-yellow with subtle silver reflections. This dry Pacherenc presents an inviting bouquet of lemon zest, grapefruit, white peach and orchard blossoms layered with delicate notes of honey, vanilla and toasted almond. The palate is vibrant and beautifully textured, balancing crisp, citrus-driven acidity with the richness and concentration that Petit Manseng brings. A long, mineral-laced finish leaves impressions of citrus peel and almond, making for a white that is both refreshing and remarkably complex. An excellent Alpine cheese wine, try Raclette and Comté, though you can confidently pair the Ode d’Aydie blanc with oysters, grilled shrimp, seared scallops, roasted halibut, sushi, herb-roasted chicken or veal in a light cream sauce.