Ugni Blanc and Colombard are two of the most widely cultivated white grape varieties. If you already know this you are probably a brandy drinker, since Ugni Blanc and Colombard represent the backbone of Cognac production. However, many important white wines are also made from these historic grapes, found in some of the best quality-to-price propositions anywhere. While rarely encountered outside of France, the dry white wines made from these two historic varieties are consistently refreshing, crisp and flavorful, perfect as an aperitif or an accompaniment to many foods.
 
WINE PROFILE
Venteux 22 features citrus and tropical fruit aromas, and a super-focused, crystal-clean palate. Lime, grapefruit and melon notes abound in the mouth, chased by a brisk, refreshing finish. This French white blend is refined and electric on the palate, leaving the drinker thirsty for more.
 
VENTEUX OF A KIND
In the Southwest of France, where the Ugni Blanc and Colombard grapes thrive, these versatile varieties produce balanced, fruity wines with the rare ability to hold on to their lively acidic backbone. Cultivated since time immemorial, Ugni Blanc and Colombard are well respected by French vignerons and have always been a staple of regional white wine production.
 
Until recently, Ugni Blanc and Colombard were best known for Cognac production, but the number of adventurous winemakers who enterprise to bottle the dry white version of these grapes are rapidly increasing, to allow full expression of their varietal charm. The last decade has seen a resurgence in focus on these under-appreciated wines, and Venteux 22 aims to express their true standing as one of France’s truly special dry white wines.
 
WINEMAKING PROCESS
Referred to as “à double fin” (dual purpose) grapes in France due to their ability to make great whites and brandy, the Ugni Blanc and Colombard grapes reward a short maceration and cool fermentation, to extract as much varietal character as possible while still retaining freshness. Venteux 22 is aged in stainless steel before being carefully bottled before the following harvest.