Description

Château de Monterminod is one of the most distinctive wines in the Domaine Jean Perrier et Fils collection, produced from the small and historic Monterminod vineyard in the Cluse de Chambéry. Made entirely from Altesse, Savoie’s emblematic white grape, this is a Roussette de Savoie with considerably more depth and structure than the region’s lighter, more immediately refreshing whites.

The Monterminod vineyard has an exceptionally long history, with references to vines surrounding the castle dating back to the 11th century. The appellation lies on the north-eastern side of the Chambéry valley, on small south-facing parcels rising towards the Nivolet massif. The old vines are planted on glacial moraine composed of clay and limestone, giving the wine both richness and a distinctive mineral backbone. The Perrier family has the exclusive production of this particular Monterminod wine.

The wine is made from Altesse, a naturally low-yielding variety particularly well suited to the steep slopes of Savoie. At the Perrier estate, the grapes are hand-harvested before being gently pressed. Following clarification, fermentation takes place under controlled temperatures, after which the wine is matured in traditional tanks before bottling. This approach allows the natural richness and character of the old-vine Altesse to remain at the centre of the wine.

In the glass, Château de Monterminod has a bright golden-yellow colour. The nose is generous and expressive, revealing ripe white fruits, pineapple and grapefruit, with subtle citrus and mineral nuances. With age, Altesse can develop deeper notes of honey, quince and preserved fruit, adding further complexity to an already characterful wine.

On the palate, the wine is both lively and full-bodied, combining freshness with a remarkably structured texture. The fruit is ripe and generous, balanced by bright acidity and a gentle mineral character. Its distinctive finish brings a delicate bitterness reminiscent of orange peel, adding freshness and length rather than sweetness. This combination of richness, structure and freshness gives the wine excellent balance and makes it particularly well suited to ageing.

Château de Monterminod is a beautiful partner for food, particularly dishes with enough flavour and richness to match its structure. It works wonderfully with foie gras, charcuterie, fish with fennel or sorrel, lake and river fish, spicy or exotic dishes and mature Alpine cheeses such as Beaufort. It is equally rewarding on its own, particularly after a little time in the glass. Enjoy it chilled but not overly cold, around 8–10°C, and expect it to develop beautifully over five years and beyond.