Big Bang 2023 – Vins des Allobroges Blanc

A wine born from the power of the Savoy mountains

Big Bang 2023 is the symbol of contemporary Savoyard viticulture, capable of blending ancient indigenous varieties with sustainable practices and deep respect for nature. Born in Aiton, at the heart of Savoie, on steep and difficult-to-cultivate slopes, it delivers wines with strong character and remarkable mineral freshness.

The heritage of rare and precious grape varieties

The blend of Jacquère, Altesse, Mondeuse Grise, and Blanc de Maurienne makes Big Bang a unique and unrepeatable wine. These grapes, deeply rooted in the viticultural history of the region, bring biodiversity and complexity, offering authentic aromas and a sensory profile that speaks of mountain winds and rocky soils.

Natural winemaking and respect for life cycles

Vinification follows a natural approach, starting with a gentle pressing and cooling of the grapes for three days before blending during alcoholic and malolactic fermentation. No sulfites are added, and the absence of fining or filtration preserves the wine’s original energy and purity.

Aging on fine lees

Big Bang ages on fine lees, a technique that enhances its flavor depth, aromatic complexity, and aging potential. Minimal intervention in the cellar allows the terroir of Savoie to shine through with authenticity and precision.

Limited production and biodynamic philosophy

With just 2,700 bottles produced, Big Bang 2023 is a true rarity. Grown with organic and biodynamic methods, harvested by hand and crafted with care, it represents the authentic soul of Savoie and the vision of a heroic viticulture focused on quality and sustainability.

Technical Sheet – Big Bang 2023

• Region: Savoie

• Grapes: Jacquère, Altesse, Mondeuse Grise, Blanc de Maurienne

• Appellation: IGP Vins des Allobroges Blanc

• Vineyard size: 2.5 ha

• Soil: grey limestone and degraded schist stones

• Average vine age: 5 years

• Farming: organic, biodynamic

• Harvest: manual

• Vinification: gentle pressing and cooling of grapes separately for 3 days; blending during alcoholic and malolactic fermentation

• Aging: on fine lees

• Fining: –

• Filtration: none

• SO₂ added: none

• Production: 2,700 bottles

L’Aitonnement: heroic viticulture in Savoie

Aiton is a small village in Savoie that once counted over 250 hectares of vineyards. Starting from the 1950s, however, these lands were progressively abandoned: the steep slopes made it impossible to use tractors, and working them was too complex and demanding. Of this ancient viticultural heritage, only a handful of hectares survived, including the 2.5 cultivated since 2016 by winemaker Maxime Dancoine, who founded his estate L’Aitonnement.

The legacy of a demanding yet precious terroir

Maxime took over the domaine of Bernard and Marido Bachellier, the last vignerons of Aiton. The vineyards lie on very steep slopes, with inclinations of up to 70%. Despite the challenges, the vines benefit from optimal southern exposure and a constant wind that keeps the microclimate dry and healthy. The soil is shallow, composed of grey limestone and degraded schist stones, under which numerous natural springs flow, bringing freshness and vitality to the vines.

Indigenous grape varieties and biodiversity

The ampelographic heritage of L’Aitonnement is extraordinary, partly unique. The main varieties are Mondeuse Noire, Jacquère Blanche, and Altesse, typical of Savoie. These are complemented by rare and ancient varieties such as Douce Noire, Persan, Joubertin Noir, Blanc de Maurienne, Mondeuse Grise and Blanche, Verdesse, and many others. This mosaic of grapes allows Maxime to craft wines that are complex, profound, and deeply connected to their terroir.

Winemaking philosophy and natural approach

At L’Aitonnement, winemaking is guided by respect for the environment and the natural expression of the fruit. Maxime uses sulfites in a moderate and reasoned way, based on direct observations about wine quality and longevity. The goal is to produce wines that are long-lived, fine, sincere, and full of personality, designed to shine in convivial moments.

Organic farming and extreme viticulture

Maxime works as a true heroic winemaker. The vineyards are farmed according to organic practices, with some principles of biodynamics. Harvesting is done entirely by hand, despite the extremely high planting density that exceeds 10,000 vines per hectare. A demanding choice that requires dedication and passion, but ensures authenticity, quality, and total respect for the unique terroir of Aiton.