2010 Loire Sauvignon Blanc Ambassadors: Vignoble des Vendeignes

Last night we tried another 2010 Loire Sauvignon Blanc Ambassador – Vignoble des Vendeignes. This estate, which is based in Oisly, is new to me. It is, however, well established as it has been passed down through the generations since 1885. It is run by Thierry and Caroline Chaumais. They have 13.80 hectares of vines mainly planted with Sauvignon Blanc. In addition they also have some Pineau d'Aunis, Chenin, Gamay, Cabernet and Côt. 

Their 2010 is agreeably crisp, fresh and lemony with delicate gooseberry aromas. It passes the CRM acidity test – approved as not too sharp.    

13 Route de Feings, 41700 Oisly. Tel: 02.54.79.52.02
email: th.chaumais@wanadoo.fr

2010 Loire Sauvignon Blanc Ambassadors: 2010 Ante Vinum, Château de Quinçay

A few weeks ago 11 bottles of 2010 Loire Sauvignon Blanc arrived. Sent by SOPEXA UK these are some of the 28 Loire Sauvignon Blanc Ambassadors chosen from the latest vintage. This project is funded and organised by Interloire, the promotional body for the appellations from the Pays Nantais through to Touraine, and by the Syndicat des Vins de Pays du Val de Loire. They employ Sam Harrop MW as their consultant.

Up to now I haven't had a chance to taste any of the wines. However, I have now made a start with the 2010 Ante Vinum, AC Touraine from Château de Quinçay in Meunes – the same small town on the south side of the Cher as Jacky Preys.

Ante Vinum comes from vines of over 40 years old and has mellow gooseberry aromas allied with some fruit weight offset by the crisp acidity associated with the 2010 vintage. Attractive to drink now it may take on further weight and complex with another year or two's bottle age.

The domaine, which has been passed down through the generations, is now run by Frédéric and Philippe Cadart.

New Zealander Sam Harrop MW