The 2020 Paul Gadenne Chignin Bergeron Roussanne is a beautifully textured and alpine-fresh expression of Roussanne from one of Savoie’s most exciting young organic producers. “Bergeron” is the local Savoyard name for Roussanne, and Paul Gadenne farms just 0.4 hectares of 40–50 year old vines on limestone, clay and sandy loam soils near the village of Chignin at roughly 400 metres elevation. The cool alpine climate combined with southwest exposure gives the wine remarkable balance between richness and tension, while the domaine’s organic, low-intervention philosophy preserves purity and terroir transparency.
The nose reveals ripe pear, yellow apple and preserved lemon layered alongside honeysuckle, beeswax, almond skin and subtle smoky mineral notes, giving the wine impressive aromatic complexity and mountain freshness. On the palate, it is light to medium-bodied with vibrant natural acidity, silky texture and a tightly focused mineral core. Layers of orchard fruit, quince and gentle honeyed richness are balanced by saline freshness and chalky alpine tension, finishing long, poised and beautifully persistent with excellent precision and drinkability. Fermentation with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel and ageing on fine lees preserve the wine’s crystalline purity while adding subtle textural depth. Critics and importers have described the wine as “rich but focused and linear,” highlighting its combination of nougat-like richness with taut acidity and mineral drive.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2020 Paul Gadenne Chignin Bergeron Roussanne is a superb alpine white — textured, mineral and beautifully expressive with outstanding freshness and finesse. Perfect with fondue, raclette, roast chicken, river fish, creamy mushroom dishes or alpine cheeses. Enjoy now through 2032+.
