Henri Chauvet Côtes d'Auvergne 'De Cendre et d'Âme' 2023
4.5
HK$450
750ml
Bottle
Vintage Character From the dramatic volcanic slopes of the Côtes d'Auvergne, the 2023 Henri Chauvet 'De Cendre et d'Âme' represents a brilliant showcase of high-altitude viticulture. The 2023 growing season in Auvergne combined warm summer sunshine with timely rains, yielding grapes with superb phenolic ripeness balanced by the region's hallmark electric acidity. This cuvée hails from the village of Boudes, where the vines dig deep into ancient basaltic scree and red clay, imparting a distinct smoky, volcanic minerality and remarkable structural tension to the blend of Gamay and Syrah.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairing On the nose, it offers an alluring bouquet of wild blackberries, crushed granite, white pepper, and dried violets. The palate is vibrantly alive, displaying silky tannins, juicy dark cherry flavors, and a long, energetic finish defined by a saline, smoky undertone. Pair this expressive red with wood-fired grilled duck breast with cherry reduction, or a classic French plate of charcuterie and aged Auvergne cheeses like Saint-Nectaire.
Winery Background Henri Chauvet was founded in 2021 when Chauvet, after refining his craft alongside Northern Rhône legend Thierry Allemand, acquired 4.7 hectares of vineyards in Auvergne. He manages his plots organically, hand-harvesting the low-yielding vines. In the cellar, Chauvet practices hands-off vinification with native yeasts and minimal sulfur, aging the wine gently in neutral vessels to preserve the purity of the volcanic terroir. This meticulous approach has quickly established Chauvet as one of France’s most exciting new-wave producers, redefining what is possible in this historic volcanic landscape.