Vinous (98)

Vinous (98)

Crafted by esteemed winemaker Edmond Vatan, the Sancerre Clos La Neore 2017 is a fine example of terroir-driven vinification. Produced in the heart of France's Loire valley, it's one of the last remaining single plots of Sancerre, offering unrivalled purity and typicity of the region.

The Edmond Vatan Sancerre Clos La Neore 2017 demonstrates an exquisite balance of ripe fruit, minerality, and palate-gripping acidity. Hand-harvested from vines averaging 50-years-old on Kimmeridgian marl soils, this prestigious Sauvignon Blanc ferments naturally in old wooden foudres to enhance its inherent complexity.

With a limited production, the wine reveals a striking, crystal-clear golden hue alongside an aromatic profile of citrus zest, ripe apple, and flinty undertones. It's exceptionally layered, showing vibrant fruit, precise acid, and a lingering finish. Best consumed after carefully decanting, Edmond Vatan Sancerre Clos La Neore 2017 is a sought-after vintage deserving of a place in the cellars of discerning neophytes and seasoned collectors alike.

Vinous (96)

The Edmond Vatan Sancerre Clos La Neore 2020 is an extraordinary embodiment of French viticulture, crafted in the world-renowned Loire Valley. Each bottle is a testament to the singular dedication of esteemed vigneron, the late Edmond Vatan, who meticulously hand-harvested from the esteemed Clos La Neore vineyard. This captivating Sancerre is renowned for its unique mineral-driven style, a characteristic intrinsic to the flint-rich Kimmeridgian soils that make up the terroir. The 2020 edition exhibits a deft balance of elegance and intensity, encapsulating pure Sauvignon Blanc expressions including flavours of ripe citrus and white blossom. The wine undergoes traditional vinification process, fermenting in ancient inox vats and barrel ageing. This process helps the wine exhibit remarkable ageability. A benchmark of Sancerre, the Edmond Vatan Sancerre Clos La Neore 2020 is truly an artisanal offering to titillate the discerning palate and elevate the drinking experience of wine enthusiasts globally.

Experience the exquisite taste of the 'Foreau Vouvray Sec 2020', an exceptional example of French winemaking heritage. Handcrafted by famed producer, Domaine du Clos Naudin, this is an unforgettably refined and precise white wine. Harvested from organically maintained 40-year-old Chenin Blanc vines in the Loire Valley, this wine exhibits remarkable freshness and minerality.

The 'Foreau Vouvray Sec 2020' undergoes intricate wine-making practices. Aging on fine lees for 12 months in old wood barrels gives it a distinct complexity and harmony. Its aromatic profile is characterised by its elegant bouquet of orchard fruits, honey and white flowers leading to a palate with bright acidity, giving the wine its vibrant character.

As praised by wine experts globally, the 'Foreau Vouvray Sec 2020' is a superbly structured wine that showcases the remarkable terroir of Vouvray. This wine is as perfect for cellaring and aging, as it is for immediate enjoyment - an embodiment of superior French winemaking.

Experience luxury indulgence with Fosse Seche Saumur Arcane 2022 – a fine specimen exemplifying remarkable expertise and commitment. Crafted in the serene terrains of Saumur, in the heart of France's renowned Loire Valley, this exquisite wine stands as a testament to the wealth of the region's terroir. Employing a rigorous biodynamic approach, the producer, Fosse Seche, ensures optimum soil vitality, leading to balanced, healthy vines. These factors directly contribute to the depth, intricacy, and authenticity of every sip. Full bodied with an enduring finish, this wine is renowned for its palate of rich, dark fruit flavours balanced by a distinctive minerality. The Fosse Seche Saumur Arcane 2022, while perfect for immediate appreciation, offers impressive age-worthiness, making it an investment in the exuberant pleasure for the discerning wine lover. Impeccably produced and undeniably elegant, the Fosse Seche Saumur Arcane 2022 is certain to invigorate your sense and elevate your wine collection.

In the heart of France's historic Loire Valley, the Fosse Seche Saumur Eolithe 2021 truly is the epitome of fine wine craftsmanship. Produced meticulously by the accomplished Guiberteau family, who have been tending to their vineyards organically since 1992, this exquisite blend of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon captivates the senses. Grown on pristine Jurassic limestone soils with southeastern exposure, the grapes are manually harvested and revel in spontaneous fermentation.

Poured into the glass, the Fosse Seche Saumur Eolithe 2021 radiates a beautiful, clear ruby hue. It enamours the nose with complex aromas of ripe fruit, forest floor and subtle spices, and enchants the palate with its silky tannins, balancing acidity and remarkable ageing potential. Feathered with notes of ripe cherries, this fine Loire wine concludes with an elegant, lingering finish. A true testament to the Fosse Seche estate's preciseness and integrity.

Immerse yourself in the elegant aroma of Fosse Seche Saumur Gondwana 2020, a luxuriously handpicked Cabernet Franc grown and prepared on the esteemed terroirs of Fosse Séche estate in Saumur, France. This biodynamic wine renders a unique experience enhanced by the vineyard's 450 million-year-old fossils and seabed nuances. The producer, the Foucault brothers, have focused on minimal-intervention viticulture, crafting the Fosse Seche Saumur Gondwana 2020 into a structured and complex wine that flaunts an exceptional depth of character.

This distinctive grape varietal paints an impressive profile with black fruit and graphite, alongside smoky, earthy tones. Expect a long, silky finish and well-rounded tannins that will delicately linger on the palate. Fosse Seche Saumur Gondwana 2020 is a delightful expression of purity, sophistication, and tradition, making it a must-have for any discerning collector or wine enthusiast. Perfectly embrace any occasion by adding this extraordinary wine to your collection.

Exquisite in execution, the Fosse Seche Saumur Gondwana 2021 is the epitome of fine French winemaking. Produced in the coveted appellation of Saumur in the Loire Valley, this wine embodies the masterful approach of Fosse Seche domaine, which has practised biodynamic viticulture since 1998. The vineyard's distinctive terroir, a blend of sandstone and clay-limestone, fosters deep-rooted vines yielding fruit of exceptional quality.

Skilful hands nurture the Chenin Blanc variety into a harmoniously dry white wine. Battonage and lees-ageing elevate its overall profile, imbuing complex layers of green apple, quince, and flint in every sip. The Fosse Seche Saumur Gondwana 2021 is vegan-friendly, unfined, and unfiltered, with no addition of sulphites, remaining true to natural winemaking principles.

A testament to Fosse Seche's meticulous craftsmanship, the Fosse Seche Saumur Gondwana 2021 is an expression of precise oenological artistry that appeals to discerning palates worldwide.

Experience the distinguished Fosse Seche Saumur Pigeonnier Reserve 2018, a phenomenal specimen exalting the French winemaking craft from the venerable Saumur region. This exquisite Cabernet Franc combines the tradition of biodynamic vineyard practices with modern methods, curated under the masterful oversight of brothers Guillaume and Adrien Pire at the esteemed Fosse Seche estate.

Matured in French oak barrels, the wine expresses complex notes of ripe red fruits, violets, tobacco, and an undercurrent of spices. The firm tannins and dynamic acidity culminate in a starling finish, revealing a wine of superb structure and depth. The Fosse Seche Saumur Pigeonnier Reserve 2018 bears the hallmarks of the region's esteemed terroir, featuring the unique chalky soils of Saumur.

Be it for connoisseurs or discerning enthusiasts, the Fosse Seche Saumur Pigeonnier Reserve 2018 offers an enticing opportunity to savour an authentic French viticultural gem.

The Fosse Seche Saumur Pigeonnier Reserve 2022 is an exquisite yielding from the prestigious vineyards of Fosse Seche, situated in the heart of the Saumur appellation of the Loire Valley in France. Honouring centuries-old viticultural traditions, this elegant Reserve is meticulously crafted from organically-farmed Cabernet Franc vines, aged for an extended duration in meticulously selected oak barrels to cultivate profound depth and harmony. The wine exhibits a magnificent ruby hue, revealing enticing aromas of ripe, red fruits masterfully intertwined with subtle hints of spice and earth. On the palate, the Fosse Seche Saumur Pigeonnier Reserve 2022 is defined by its polished balance, firm structure, and enduring finish; a true testament to Fosse Seche's unwavering commitment towards making wines of remarkable pedigree. This masterpiece amalgamates the terroir's characteristic freshness with the power and sophistication of an authentically produced Saumur red, creating a wine of irresistible appeal for aficionados in search of genuine Loire Valley treasures.

Experience the elegant and expressive qualities of the Francois Chidaine Montlouis Sur Loire Clos Habert 2019. Crafted by renowned winemaker Francois Chidaine, this white wine hails from the Loire Valley's Montlouis sur Loire Appellation. It showcases a biodynamic approach to viticulture, reflecting the producer's deep respect for preserving natural wine characteristics. Made from 100% Chenin Blanc grapes harvested from the Clos Habert vineyard, the wine undergoes fermentation in both barrels and tanks, achieving a perfect balance and capturing harmony between fruit and minerality. It unveils aromatic layers of quince and ripe pear, culminating in a long finish. This wine reflects a meticulous attention to detail, no surprise from a producer who painstakingly hand-harvests grapes from vines averaging 45 years old. Do not miss out on the Francois Chidaine Montlouis Sur Loire Clos Habert 2019; a fine offering from one of Loire valley's most respected producers.

Delight in every sip with the Francois Chidaine Vouvray Le Bouchet 2019. Expertly crafted in Loire Valley, France's coveted Vouvray region, this exquisite wine represents the pinnacle of Chenin Blanc production. Operated under biodynamic principles since 2002, Francois Chidaine's vineyards maximise the unique complex terroir. An intricate ageing process, including maturing on fine lees for nine whole months, imparts an astounding depth, finesse, and balance into this laudable vintage.

This Loire Valley gem emanates sumptuous honey, quince, and dried fruit notes woven with a fine thread of minerality. Its assertive profile evolves over time, richly rewarding those with the patience to cellar this resplendent wine. Fresh, tense acidity rounds off a truly mesmerising palate, rendering the Francois Chidaine Vouvray Le Bouchet 2019 a revered addition to discerning wine collections. Savour this harmonious, expressive wine and embark on an enthralling sensorial journey through French viticulture.

The Gerard Boulay Sancerre Clos Beaujeu 2022 is an exquisite embodiment of fine French winemaking. Produced by Gerard Boulay, a stalwart and highly-respected vigneron, this Sancerre hails from Chavignol, France's terroir-rich region distinguished for its unique Kimmeridgian clay and limestone-based soils. Cherishing traditional techniques, hand-harvested and fermented using only indigenous yeasts, the vines for this vintage age nearly 70 years.

In the glass, the Clos Beaujeu 2022 reveals a luminous, golden hue and unparalleled aromatic expression - an intricate bouquet of crisp citrus, ripe gooseberry, and nuanced flinty minerality. On the palate, it boasts structured acidity, embodying a harmony of richness and freshness. Its fruit-forward character accented by a mineral-edge, elegantly imprints a lingering finish. This Sancerre is a testament to Gerard Boulay’s meticulous craftsmanship and charming sophistication of Sancerre whites.

Experience the exceptional legacy - the Gerard Boulay Sancerre Clos Beaujeu 2022, a standout in its league.

Vinous (94)

Hailing from the hallowed lands of the Loire Valley, the Gerard Boulay Sancerre Cote 2020 is an exceptional vin de terroir. Cultivated in a limestone-rich vineyard set upon the esteemed Chavignol hillsides, this 100% Sauvignon Blanc gem captures the essence of Sancerre's unique minerality. Sustainably produced by the dedicated Gerard Boulay, this wine marks its distinctiveness by its classical vinification methods. Hand-harvested grapes are vinified in indigenous yeasts and aged in stainless steel tanks, enhancing the purity of the fruit character.

The result is a white wine that intrigues with its pale straw hue, and enthralls with its crisp taste featuring nuances of white peaches, citrus fruits and subtle white flowers. The layered flavours and bright acidity impart vivacity balanced by its striking minerality. It is an ideal pairing for seafood dishes and chevre. Experience the astounding clarity of expression in the Gerard Boulay Sancerre Cote 2020.

Delight in the exquisite and complex Gerard Boulay Sancerre Cote 2022. This refined, white wine hails from the prestigious region of Sancerre, in France's Loire Valley. Gerard Boulay, a winemaker of remarkable repute, meticulously crafts this nectar from 45-year-old vines, rooted in Kimmeridgian "terre blanche" soils, which impart a unique mineral streak.

The Gerard Boulay Sancerre Cote 2022 is fermented using natural yeasts and aged in stainless steel tanks, enhancing its sublime purity of fruit flavours. Expect a vibrant palate of citrus and white flowers married with a balanced acidity and minerality, offering an elegant, extended finish.

With limited production and exceptional craftsmanship, the Gerard Boulay Sancerre Cote 2022 is a coveted addition to any fine wine collection. Whether savoured right away, or cellared for a future occasion, it offers a captivating drinking experience, a true reflection of Sancerre's enviable wine tradition.

Ignite your palate with the Gerard Boulay Sancerre Les Monts Damnes 2022, a sublime white wine crafted with mastery. Cultivated from the famed terroir of Chavignol in the Loire Valley, it mirrors the winemaking pedigree of the Boulay family who boasts more than seven generations of expertise. Preserved using traditional methods, each grape is handpicked from 45-year old vines and fermented with natural yeasts. This meticulous process champions the supreme quality and unique personality of the wine. A call to all Sauvignon Blanc lovers, the Gerard Boulay Sancerre Les Monts Damnes 2022 tantalises with its exquisite mineral notes and complex fruit aromas. Its enduring finish ensures a lingering taste of Sancerre enchantment. This world-renowned vintage reflects the essence of Chavignol's distinctive chalky soils, resulting in an inimitably expressive, elegant, and beautifully balanced wine. Truly, the Gerard Boulay Sancerre Les Monts Damnes 2022 stands as an immovable testament to the Boulay family's passionate dedication to excellence.

Experience the quintessence of Loire Valley white wines with Guiberteau Saumur Blanc 2021. Revered producer Romain Guiberteau meticulously crafts this Chenin Blanc on the rich limestone slopes of Brézé in France. Utilising biodynamic farming techniques, every grape is harvested by hand, ensuring the profound mineral character of the terroir is faithfully expressed in each bottle. The result is a wine of remarkable vibrancy and depth.

The Guiberteau Saumur Blanc 2021 is celebrated for its crystalline purity, displaying nuanced aromas of ripe apple, pear, honeysuckle, and distinctive chalk. Unfolding elegantly on the palate, it balances vivacious acidity with lush fruit expression, culminating in a lingering, mineral-etched finish. Its inherent complexity and structure promise excellent ageing potential, further enhancing its allure to white wine enthusiasts. For those seeking a versatile, expressive wine with a sense of place, the Guiberteau Saumur Blanc 2021 is a choice par excellence.

The Guiberteau Saumur Breze 2018 offers an unmatched wine experience for discerning palates. Hailing from the prestigious Loire Valley in France, this wine exemplifies the expertise of winemaker Romain Guiberteau, renowned for predominantly organic and biodynamic cultivation. Impeccably crafted from Chenin Blanc grapes, aromas of ripe quince, pear, and acacia flash to the forefront, followed by a finely structured mineral core, reflective of the region's unique Tuffeau soil. The 2018 vintage, in particular, provides remarkable depth and vegetal undertones, striking a remarkable balance between acidity and roundness. Meticulously hand-harvested and fermented in seasoned French oak, the Guiberteau Saumur Breze 2018 exhibits the winemaker's touch of minimal intervention, resulting in a pure, authentic expression of the terroir. An elegant companion to sophisticated dining, it promises a rich, evolving experience with each sip.

Revel in the essence of Loire Valley's gem, the Guiberteau Saumur Breze 2019. An exquisite testament to Romain Guiberteau's expertise, this Cabernet Franc displays remarkable finesse and complexity. Artfully crafted from 50-year-old vines rooted in chalky and flinty soils on the hills of Brézé, it is left to mature in neutral oak, a process that imparts a refined elegance.

The Guiberteau Saumur Breze 2019 showcases a nose rich with ripe red fruits, light peppery spice, and mineral undertones, demonstrating Guiberteau's ability to reveal the lure and nuance of the Brézé terroir. Precise and vibrant on the palate, it offers an alluring play of pure strawberry, cherry, and herbs, supported by moderate acidity and supple tannins.

Established as a premier producer in Saumur, Guiberteau has presented a compelling expression of Cabernet Franc's potential with this 2019 vintage, a wine epitomising authenticity and purity.