Château de la Selve

The history of Château de la Selve

Château de la Selve was originally a fortified castle in the 13th century, used as a stronghold to protect the borders of the Empire and then the Kingdom of France. It then became the property of the Dukes of Joyeuses, who transformed it into a hunting lodge.

Over time, the château was somewhat neglected by its owners and deteriorated considerably. It changed ownership several times and gradually became a farm.

Its current owners, the Chazallon family, have completely restructured the estate to devote it to viticulture.

The Château de la Selve estate

Today, Benoît Chazallon runs a 44-hectare vineyard, managed organically and biodynamically. His approach is the least interventionist possible, so that the grapes grow naturally, benefiting from the natural defenses that the vine can shape, thanks to organic farming. This method also gives finesse to the wines, allowing them to freely express their minerality.

The winemaking process is also as natural as possible. It gives the wines the opportunity to magnify the qualities of the Ardèche terroir. The soil at Château de la Selve is predominantly clay-limestone, dating from the Cretaceous period. The climate is very sunny, with very high daytime temperatures contrasting with cool nights.

The grape varieties are Cinsault, Syrah, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon and Viognier. Production comprises 9 IGP Coteaux de l'Ardèche cuvées and 3 ranges of wines: "Les domaines", "Les Terroirs" and "Les Confidentielles".

The wines of Château de la Selve

Château de la Selve Confidentielles are made from a selection of the estate's finest grapes.

Les Confidentielles - Florence

Château de la Selve's Florence dès Confidentielles cuvée is a red wine made from Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault grapes, as well as a hint of Viognier.

Its color is a very dark red. The nose is expressive, exhaling a complex yet subtle blend of black fruits, licorice and humus. The palate is powerful and elegant, with fine tannins. The wine is fresh, with a long, rich, fruity finish. Cuvée Florence lends itself magnificently to ageing, from 15 to 20 years. Serve chilled, between 12 and 17°C. It goes wonderfully with all game dishes.

Les Confidentielles - L'audacieuse

Château de la Selve's L'Audacieuse is a true terroir rosé. It is a blend of 60% Syrah, 20% Grenache and 20% Viognier. Its light pink color offers a crystalline brilliance. The nose is intense and greedy, bursting with red fruit and citrus. Finesse and freshness on the palate ensure long-lasting fruitiness. Serve between 12 and 17°C with spicy, French or exotic dishes. It can be kept for up to 10 years.