Description
La Demoiselle is an emblematic cuvée of Domaine Laballe, located in the heart of the Landes, in Gascony, on the first hillsides of the South-West. This dry white wine, from the IGP Côtes de Gascogne, embodies the elegance, freshness and authenticity of the Gascon terroir, in a delicate and aromatic expression.
Terroir and viticulture
The vineyard rests on a distinctive soil of sables fauves (tawny sands), a geological feature of the Landes rich in iron oxides. This light soil encourages the vine to root deeply and gives the wine finesse and minerality. The temperate oceanic climate, influenced by the Pyrenees and the Atlantic, ensures slow, gradual ripening of the grapes, preserving their natural freshness.
Viticulture follows an environmentally friendly approach, with the vines managed using sustainable farming, in order to foster the natural balance between vine, soil and climate. The grapes are harvested at perfect ripeness, often at night or in the early morning, to retain as much aroma and freshness as possible.
Grape varieties and winemaking
La Demoiselle is made from Gros Manseng, the emblematic grape variety of the South-West. Gros Manseng brings volume, texture and exotic notes.
After gentle pressing, the musts are cold-settled to ensure optimal clarity. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, at low temperature (around 16-18°C), to preserve the aromatic intensity of the grape varieties. The wine is then aged on fine lees for several weeks, with stirring if necessary, in order to add richness and complexity without losing tension.
Tasting
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Colour : Clear, pale yellow with green glints.
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Nose : Intense and elegant, with notes of white flowers, fresh citrus fruit (lemon, grapefruit), and a touch of exotic fruit (pineapple, passion fruit).
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Palate : A lively, crunchy attack, with a fine balance between crisp acidity and roundness. The finish is clean, saline and lightly briny, marked by fine aromatic persistence.
Food & wine pairings
Perfect as an aperitif, La Demoiselle also pairs wonderfully with:
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of grilled or marinated fish (sea bream, sea bass),
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of seafood (oysters, prawns, whelks),
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of fresh cheeses (goat's cheese, feta),
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or exotic, lightly spiced dishes, such as ceviche or a mild Thai curry.
Serving temperature: 8–10 °C
Cellaring: Drink young, within 2 to 3 years, to enjoy all its aromatic freshness.
La Demoiselle is a charming and expressive white wine, typical of Gascony: a perfect balance between immediate pleasure and natural elegance, not to be missed.
Carole (verified owner) –
Balance and liveliness in this sweet wine that leans towards off-dry – a treat with cheesecake!