A full-bodied white with rich, ripe pear fruit that develops into floral and herby peachiness. The wine has a long leesy character and fresh acidity. Attractive when young but worth leaving for a couple of years, which will allow the wine to develop some wonderful nutty and mineral notes. Match with goats or sheep cheeses, delicate pork or full flavoured fish dishes with cream and herbs such as dill. Also goes well with shellfish and seafood.

Domaine Chante Cigale, located within the village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, has been owned and operated by the Sabon Favier family for several generations. Consisting of 102 acres of land classified Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the wines produced from this Domaine can be considered as classic, wellmade, reasonably priced Châteauneufs. Recently Christian Favier the father released the reins to his son, Alexandre, who is fast becoming new rising star of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Despite only being in his early 20's he has been lauded by notable journalists Steve Danzier in the US and Jancis Robinson in the UK.

The domaine is located in Châteauneuf-du-Pape in a very stony part of Châteauneuf, where you can find the famous “galets roulés” (rolled pebbles). A big part of the vineyard is located on the famous plateau de Cabrières, close to Château Montredon. The size of the vineyard is 5 Ha (12 acres) for the white wine / 1200 cases by year. The soils of the vineyard are made up of clay and chalk covered with a layer of the pebbles, which naturally keeps yields low.

Awards-

2010 Vintage: Decanter Wine Awards 2011 - Silver

2010 Vintage: IWSC 2011 - Bronze

2009 Vintage: Sommelier Wine Awards 2011 - Silver

2008 Vintage: Sommelier Wine Awards 2010 - Gold list

2008 Vintage: IWSC 2009 - Silver

2008 Vintage: Decanter World Wine Awards 2009 - Trophy (White Rhone over £10)

2007 Vintage: IWSC 2008 - Bronze

2007 Vintage: Decanter World Wine Awards 2008 - Bronze

2006 Vintage: Decanter World Wine Awards 2007 - Bronze