Domaine Meillan’s Cuvée 4 Cépages 2023 is a lively and expressive white from the renowned Côtes de Gascogne appellation in the South-West of France. As suggested by its name, this cuvée is a blend of four grape varieties, a typical style for the region, although the exact varietals are often made up of Colombard, Ugni Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Gros Manseng. The 2023 vintage expresses freshness and aromatic intensity, shaped by stainless steel vinification aiming to preserve primary fruit characters. Typically, this wine exhibits crisp acidity, notes of citrus, white peach, green apple, and fresh herbs, underpinned by an enticing floral hint. The palate is light to medium-bodied, beautifully balanced, and driven by invigorating minerality and saline undertones.
Côtes de Gascogne lies in the heart of the Pays de la Garonne, within the historic Gascony, a region shaped by centuries of winemaking. The vineyards benefit from a combination of Atlantic influences and a temperate climate that brings cool nights, preserving acidity and aromatic vibrancy in the grapes. The soils—mainly clay-limestone with pockets of sand—allow optimal drainage and add complexity to the wines. Gascony’s winemaking heritage dates back to Roman times, and today it remains a hub for producing some of France’s most accessible and refreshing whites, prized for their lively fruit profiles and remarkable value.
For food pairing, the bright acidity and aromatic lift of this Gascon white make it a superb partner for a variety of dishes. Try it as an apéritif with goat cheese or with local Gascon delicacies like salade landaise or trout with almonds. It is also ideal with seafood platters, grilled prawns, marinated anchovies, or Asian cuisine such as sushi and lightly spiced Thai salads.
To enjoy its freshness and aromatic precision, serve this wine well-chilled at a temperature of 8-10°C. This brings out its fruit-driven character while maintaining a crisp, lively finish, making it perfect for casual sipping or as a companion to summery fare. Drink within two to three years for maximum vibrancy.
