Description
“Silices” 2024 is a singular white wine from Domaine Les Eminades, produced as a Vin de Pays des Coteaux de Fontcaude. Founded in 2002 by Patricia and Luc Bettoni, the estate is renowned for its organic and biodynamic practices (certified by Ecocert and Biodyvin), crafting wines that highlight both terroir and precision.
This cuvée is made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc, sourced from vines planted in 1984 on argilo-siliceous-limestone soils at an altitude of around 170 metres. These silica-rich soils—reflected in the name “Silices”—play a defining role in the wine’s identity, bringing a marked mineral tension and freshness. The vineyard is worked without herbicides, with careful soil management and traditional goblet pruning. Grapes are hand-harvested in small crates with rigorous sorting, and yields are kept low at around 27 hl/ha to preserve concentration and purity.
In the cellar, the approach is both natural and meticulous: direct pressing, gentle settling and spontaneous fermentation using indigenous yeasts. The wine is then aged for 10 months on its lees in 400L barrels, developing texture and complexity while maintaining the varietal’s vibrancy. Production is very limited, with only around 4,200 bottles per vintage.
The 2024 vintage offers a refined aromatic profile, with notes of lemon zest, grapefruit and green apple, complemented by hints of fresh herbs, flint and subtle toasted nuances. On the palate, it is precise and energetic, combining bright acidity with a rounded, slightly creamy texture from the lees ageing. The finish is long, mineral and delicately saline.
“Silices” is a highly versatile food wine, pairing beautifully with seafood, shellfish, goat’s cheese or herb-driven dishes. Best served around 14°C, it also has excellent ageing potential of 5 to 8 years, during which it will gain further depth and complexity.
