Marie & Florian Curtet "Altesse"

Grapes: Altesse

Region: Savoie, France

Vintage: 2017

Viticulture: Biodynamic

Soils: Sandstone

Vinification: Direct press then fermented in barrel

Aging: 9 months

Fining or Filtering: None

Sulfur: None added

Notes from the Importer: After many years of apprenticeship, Florian and Marie Curtet have risen as the successors to the dynamic Savoie producer, Jacques Maillet, who made his last vintage in 2015. They have christened their new venture Domaine Curtet, comprised of the same 5-hectare estate on the hillsides above the Upper Rhone River near Switzerland.

Two different vineyard sites highlight the estate’s holdings. Gamay and Pinot Noir are planted in the commune of Serrieres en Chautagne in the lieu-dit Vignes du Seigneur—or “The Vines of the Lord.” Nearby, in Motz’s village, the traditional Savoie grape varieties of Mondeuse, Jacquère, and Altesse are found in the vineyard known locally as Cellier des Pauvres—or “Cellar of the Poor.” The couple farms their land biodynamically, with Florian proving to be a master at implementing teas and infusions as he cares for the land. They have adopted Maillet’s spirit, choosing to work “Autrement” in the vineyard and the cellar. Their approach is devoutly non-interventionist.

Their creativity echoes through every facet of their process—down to the dragonfly on the domain’s labels, signifying the deft touch of nature they showcase in every bottle. The wines of Domaine Curtet exhibit a crystalline precision and purity–embodying the best of what the unique terroir has to offer.