2018 Saint-Péray Le Tram, Domaine Courbis

The family’s Saint-Péray vineyard is situated just above an ancient tramway path (now a quiet forest road), where steam trams linked Valance and Vernoux between 1910 and 1930. A new discovery for us, this delightful SaintPéray is a blend of Marsanne (85%) and Roussanne (15%), of which 75% fermented and matured in stainless steel tanks, with 25% in French barriques (no new oak). The result is a beautifully clean, precise, lively white with pale gold colour and aromas that recall spiced pears. Palate is full yet linear, with lemony, stone fruit flavours and a mineral backbone bringing freshness and tension. The finish is bright and crisp (for drinking 2020-22+).