The Éminence de Bijou range represents the pinnacle of Bijou’s craftsmanship, elevating the experience offered by the Le Bijou de Sophie Valrose collection.
Éminence De Bijou Chardonnay
Calcareous clay and limestone.
The Chardonnay is sourced from selected hillside sites in the Haute Vallée de l’Aude, planted between 450 and 500 metres above sea level. The vineyards sit on limestone soils formed through the erosion of the Pyrenees, providing good drainage and natural balance. Shaped by a combination of inland coolness, humidity and wide diurnal variation, this unique set of microclimates extends the growing season, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly.
After direct pressing and cold settling, the grapes are fermented and matured for 5-6 months in a combination of 3 vessels: thermo-regulated stainless steel, 365L French oak barrels from Nevers and Tronçais and older truncated wooden vats to allow micro oxygenation. The result is a cool-climate and structured expression of Chardonnay from the Pyrenees.
Eminence is a complex and layered wine. This wine offers bright peach, lemon, pineapple, and melon. The wine exhibits a nutty essence and subtle brioche. The oak subtly surfaces on the finish, offering structural support and a touch of spice. Elegantly balanced with a lingering finish carried by the acidity.
Pairs wonderfully with creamy dishes like mushroom risotto; as well as meaty fish such as halibut, cod, and lobster; and shellfish.
“A lively, precise and fresh chardonnay. It shows aromas of stone fruit, warm herbs and sweet spices on the nose, following through to a medium body with bright acidity. There is a vertical dimension to the creamier texture. Good energy with a comforting finish.”
James Suckling92 points James Suckling
Suitable for Vegans and Vegetarians
Quality and Sophistication
A range representing Bijou’s craftmanship
LA HAUTE VALLÉE DE L’AUDE
A southern French region of canyons and enchanting gorges, reveals a terraced landscape extending from hillside vineyards to the snowcapped peaks of the Pyrenees. We have carefully selected the best cooler sites in the foothills just outside the Limoux appellation area (400 – 450 meters above sea level) where the altitude, coupled with cool nights, moderates the mild summer climate. The Haute Vallée de l’Aude terroir imparts a touch of distinction, ensuring our wines strike the right balance, embodying both freshness and natural acidity
