White wine | Aosta Valley, Italy
La Plantze's 'Ferox' is a bold, expressive white wine that captures the wild spirit of the Aosta Valley. Born from Henri Anselmet’s desire to craft a wine free from convention, this Sauvignon Blanc is an homage to the legendary terroir of the Loire Valley, interpreted through the unique, high-altitude lens of the Italian Alps. Grown at elevations between 650 and 750 meters, the grapes benefit from steep, mineral-rich slopes, resulting in a wine of profound class and tension.
What makes Ferox truly 'ferocious' in its character is the meticulous winemaking process: the selected grapes undergo a 10-day maceration on the skins, followed by aging in used barriques for at least 9 months. This process imparts a remarkable depth and creamy texture that distinguishes it from more traditional, sharp Sauvignon Blancs. On the nose, you will discover an elegant bouquet of ripe peach and banana, intertwined with the classic vegetal note of tomato leaf, delicate vanilla, and flinty mineral undertones. On the palate, it is full-bodied, round, and remarkably persistent, with a fresh, savory edge that keeps you coming back for another glass.
This wine is an excellent companion for sophisticated culinary pairings. Because of its structure and aromatic complexity, it pairs beautifully with freshwater fish such as pike-perch (zander) served in a tartare with mango, or even spiced poultry and aged mountain cheeses. It is a must-have for the adventurous wine lover looking to explore the hidden gems of Northern Italy. Each bottle is a testament to the freedom of the vigneron, changing slightly with the seasons to reflect the true, unadulterated essence of the mountain vineyards.
A wild, skin-contact Sauvignon! It has a lovely creamy texture and mineral tension. Reminds me of a sophisticated Sancerre. Perfect with zander tartare or alpine cheese. A bold mountain gem!