2023 Viognier ‘Le Paradou’, Chateau Pesquié - Rhone

Perched at the crossroads of Rhône and Provence, Château Pesquié lies in the Mont Ventoux area in southern France. The vineyard is owned by the Chaudière family (Alexandre & Frédéric), three generations in and increasingly working organic and biodynamic. The terroir for Le Paradou’s Viognier is rather special: vines on hilly, south‑facing slopes about 30 km from the coast, planted on rocky limestone soils. Elevation and cool influence help preserve acidity, as does avoiding malolactic fermentation and keeping fermentation and ageing in stainless steel.

The 2023 vintage shows these practices off nicely. On the nose, expect ripe white‑fleshed fruit (peach), white flowers, with a hint of honey or blossom. On the palate, there’s juicy fruit, citrus freshness, very good minerality and a clean, balanced finish—no heaviness, thanks to that cool site and fresh handling. Alcohol is moderate (around 12.5 %) and sugar low/dry, malolactic avoided so the wine remains crisp.

As for food‑pairing, this Viognier really shines with lighter fare: think grilled fish (sea bass, brill), shellfish, risotto with spring vegetables, or goat cheese. Also lovely as an aperitif. If you wanted something more daring, try dishes with mild curry spices — the floral and peach notes can play nicely.