The grape variety Verdesse

Verdesse is a rare white grape variety predominantly found in the Isère department within the French region of Savoie. This intriguing grape is celebrated for producing lively, dry white wines with notable freshness and complexity. On the nose, Verdesse typically offers a refined aromatic profile, displaying delicate notes of green apple, pear, and citrus, often intertwined with subtle floral nuances, such as acacia blossom, and an alluring hint of almond. The palate is marked by vibrant acidity, a mineral-driven structure, and an elegant, slightly oily texture, contributing to both the wine’s length and finesse.

Verdesse is primarily cultivated in Savoie’s sheltered alpine vineyards, where the cool climate allows for a slow ripening process, accentuating the grape’s natural acidity and aromatic intensity. The wines are usually crafted in a dry, unoaked style to preserve their fresh fruit characteristics and express their terroir-driven minerality.

Pairing suggestions include fresh seafood such as oysters, scallops, and smoked trout, which elegantly complement Verdesse’s crisp profile. The grape also matches well with goat’s cheese, spring vegetable salads, and delicate poultry dishes, allowing its vivid acidity and nuanced aromas to shine alongside lighter, refined cuisines.