Recently enjoyed Loires in late March

2012 Vouvray Sec, Domaine du Clos Naudin, Philippe Foreau

Very precise, classic Vouvray Sec 

Two very good Vouvrays from Philippe Foreau: 2012 Sec above and 2003 Demi-Sec below

 2003 is famous as the heatwave year 

This lovely demi-sec while rich has good balance of acidity.

Just delicious, especially paired with blue cheese  

 

During our three week stay in the Loire we enjoyed (avec modération) a number of good bottles. This should be the first post of several. 

 1989 Cuvée Cénomane, Coteaux du Loir, Joël Gigou
Red from the Loir Valley – 100% Pinreau d'Aunis or mainly so.

This was an emergency consummation as I discovered that 

the cork had been leaking and the level was mid-to low shoulder.

Showed how resilient Loire wines can be still in 

very good, spicy condition. Memorable!  

 

Crémant de Loire Rosé, Lamé Delisle Boucard

100% Cabernet Franc 

Very attractive, light red fruits, delicate 

2008 Sancerre. Henry Natter 

Excellent mature and complex Sancerre from 

the consistently good Henry Natter, who is based in 

Montigny at the western end of the appellation.

Underlines again that good Sancerre can age beautifully    

 Crémant de Loire, Brut Zéro, Château de l'Aulée

100% Chenin Blanc and brilliant value from this 

Azay-le-Rideau based domaine

 2014 Pélo, Saumur-Champigny, Le Petit Saint Vincent  

Good concentration of black fruits but retaining freshness in the finish.

Yet another 2014 Cabernet Franc showing very well at the moment

 2011 Vieilles Vignes, Saumur-Champigny, 

Château de Villeneuve, Jean-Pierre Chevallier 

Softly fruited 2011 red showing that this vintage 

is showing well at the moment 

and shouldn't be overlooked

 

2003 Anjou Villages Brissac, Domaine de Bablut, Christophe Daviau

Rich, concentrated and now mature 

Clos Saint-Jacques 1985, Jasnières, Joël Gigou,

3 August 2009

Last night we opened this 1985 Saint-Jacques that we have had for a number of years – proabbly around 20. Lightly gold in hue with little indication that this is now nearly 25 years old and still very lemony, mineral and austere, especially when first opened when it was a little too cold. More weight when it warmed up but classic Jasnières from Joël, who for many years flew the flag for the appellation. Thrilling wine if you like this austere, no holds barred style of Chenin Blanc.