Famille Richel Apremont La Combelle 2024, Savoie

The Wine

The 2024 “La Combelle” from Famille Richel is a pure expression of Jacquère, grown in the foothills of Savoie near Chambéry. Sourced from older vines, many over 70 years, it captures that cool Alpine clarity. The wine is crafted with minimal intervention to preserve freshness, resulting in a bright, lifted profile. Expect notes of citrus zest, kiwi, green apple, and white peach, layered with a subtle stony character. It's crisp without being sharp, offering a clean finish with a little body that feels both refreshing and expressive.

Pairings: This is a natural partner for classic Alpine comfort foods. Think of a bubbling pot of fondue where the wine’s acidity cuts through richness and keeps each bite feeling balanced. It also works beautifully with simple seafood like poached shrimp or trout with lemon and herbs.

The Winery

The Richel family has been working these vineyards since the 1950s, when Joseph Richel first began bottling and selling his wines locally. Today, the estate is in the hands of the fourth generation, Christophe and his son Matthieu, who farm about seven hectares around Saint-Baldoph and Apremont. Their vineyards sit in an unusual pocket at the base of the mountains, a rare spot in Savoie that brings both ripeness and freshness. Farming is thoughtful and sustainable, with a focus on maintaining the health of older vines. The result is a wine that's shaped as much by family continuity as by the Alpine landscape itself.