Château Mourgues du Gres 'Galets Dores' Blanc 2024

Pale lemon with a whisper of green fruits; this Côstiere de Nîmes white doesn't shout for attention. Instead, aromas of pear, white blossom, and a touch of damp river stone unfurl gently. The palate is surprisingly lively - think Granny Smith apple crispness with a backbone of chalky minerality. A pleasing weight lingers on the finish, suggesting a certain seriousness beneath the easy-drinking surface. The 'Galets Dorés' (golden pebbles) allude directly to the soil at Château Mourgues du Grès. These smooth stones radiate heat, encouraging ripeness in the Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, and Vermentino grapes. The estate's commitment to organic farming ensures those grapes bring a sense of place. After hand harvesting, the fruit undergoes gentle pressing and cool fermentation. A brief period of aging on lees explains the wine's subtle texture and complexity. While the southern Rhône is better known for its reds, 'Galets Dorés' proves the potential for elegant, distinctive whites. It sidesteps the overblown ripeness that can plague the region.

This is a wine of quiet confidence, best enjoyed with simple summer fare – think grilled fish or a vibrant seasonal salad.

Château Mourgues du Grés is tucked away in the rolling Costières de Nîmes, that sun-baked stretch of the southern Rhône just edging towards the coast. It's a family affair with the delightful Anne Collard at the helm, proving this sandy, pebble-strewn terroir can produce wines of both finesse and character. Their signature is that balance of ripeness and a touch of wildness. The reds boast the signature warmth of the south, brimming with dark berry fruit and spice, but they've got a savoury streak that lifts the wines and keeps them firmly on the drinkable side. Think garrigue herbs, a touch of black olive, and silky tannins. The whites are often the surprise package - Mourgues du Grés isn't a region famed for its whites, but they coax a lovely freshness from the likes of Roussanne and Grenache Blanc. There's richness, sure, but always with a zip of acidity to keep things interesting. If you're looking for something a bit different from the southern Rhône, these are well worth seeking out.