Loire Valley
Spanning from the Central Vineyards in the east to Nantes in the west, passing through Torraine and Anjou-Samur, the Loire Valley is a vast and varied wine region shaped by the river's influence. The region's diverse terroir is characterized by a continental climate in the east and a maritime climate in the west.
Renowned for its exceptional dry white wines made from Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc, the Loire Valley offers a captivating selection with crisp acidity, expressive fruit flavours, and mineral notes. Notable white wine appellations in the Loire Valley include Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé, Vouvray, and Savennières. Leading producers of white wine in the region include Domaine Vacheron, Domaine Huet, and Domaine Didier Dagueneau.
In addition to its white wines, the Loire Valley produces charming red wines made from Cabernet Franc. Ranging from light and fruity to more complex and age-worthy, these red wines are known for their vibrant acidity, subtle tannins, and bright red fruit flavours. Key appellations for red wines in the Loire Valley include Chinon, Bourgueil, and Saumur-Champigny. Notable producers of red wine in the region include Domaine Bernard Baudry, Catherine & Pierre Breton, and Domaine Charles Joguet.
The Loire Valley also produces excellent sweet wines and sparkling wines. Sweet wines are made from Chenin Blanc grapes affected by botrytis, a fungus that concentrates the sugars in the grapes, resulting in luscious sweetness, honeyed flavors, and vibrant acidity. The most famous sweet wine appellations in the Loire Valley include Coteaux du Layon and Quarts de Chaume. Sparkling wines, known as Crémant de Loire, are made using the traditional method and offer excellent value for money with finesse, delicate bubbles, and refreshing character.
Loire Valley
| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
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Loire | 1 | 18 (JR) |
Inc. VAT
£715.22 |
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Jancis Robinson (18)Elegant and poised with red-berry and floral notes. As is often the case, a burgundian feel. Huge intensity on the palate, the tannins tight and firm but fine as well. Lovely balance. Should age well. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£90.53 |
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Immerse in the elegant complexities of the Closel Savenniers Jalousie 2014. Produced in the distinguished Savennières region of France's Loire Valley, this esteemed biodynamic wine captures the unique terroir and solar exposition of its vineyard. Steeped in rich tradition, the Domaine du Closel vineyard, managed by the unswerving dedication of Evelyne de Pontbriand, embraces a naturally low yield philosophy, thus ensuring exclusivity and consistent depth of flavor. This Closel Savenniers Jalousie 2014 elegantly displays the distinct Chenin Blanc grapes in a harmonious blend of maturity and vivacity. On the palate, this opulent dry white wine bursts with sophisticated layers of ripe fruits and mineral notes. Hand-harvested, the grapes are meticulously fermented in stainless-steel tanks, subsequently matured 'sur lie' for eight months, imparting a pristine finish brimming with subtle complexities. An elegant ode to traditional winemaking, the Closel Savenniers Jalousie 2014 embodies the heritage of its origin. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£119.33 |
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The exquisite Closel Savenniers Papillon 2020 hails from the revered Château des Vaults estate, situated amongst the historic vineyards of Savennières in France's Loire Valley. Respected vintner, Evelyne de Pontbriand, nurtures her vineyards using organic and biodynamic principles, resulting in a wine that's much-lauded for its purity and elegance. The Closel Savenniers Papillon 2020 is a Chenin Blanc made from grapes hand-harvested then meticulously sorted to ensure only the highest quality fruit graces your glass. The maturation process, in traditional oak, imparts subtle complexity to the wine that's a sheer treat to the palate. Spellbindingly structured, this golden-hued beauty unveils a rich tapestry of dried honey, apple, and acacia notes, encased within a refined mineral envelope, and graced by a lively acidity. If you're looking for a wine that mirrors the French tradition of careful, hands-on winemaking, Closel Savenniers Papillon 2020 is indisputably the bottle for you. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£74.00 |
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Exemplifying the elegance of the Loire Valley, the Cotelleraie Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil 2014 is a red wine masterpiece from the revered Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil region. Produced by Domaine de la Cotelleraie, a vineyard with eminent recognition for its meticulous dedication to sustainable practices and profound expertise of the Cabernet Franc grape. An expressive archival of terroir philosophy, this vintage attests to the inimitable loamy, gravel character of the land. Following traditional vinification, an extended maturation in seasoned oak crafts a harmonious composition of ripe red fruits, autumnal spices, and a masterful tannin structure. The 2014 vinification period yielded an elegant, well-rounded finish that transcends the familiarity of Cabernet Franc. Revel in the expressive bouquet, and the beautifully balanced, velvety texture. A luminous example of its vintage, the Cotelleraie Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil 2014 showcases the epitome of elegance in French winemaking. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£148.32 |
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The Couly-Dutheil Clos de l'Echo Chinon 2014 is an exalted red wine from the renowned Loire Valley of France. This exceptional vintage, produced by esteemed vigneron Couly-Dutheil, is carefully crafted from the sumptuous Cabernet Franc grape variety, epitomising the quintessence of Chinon wines. At its heart, raw power meets elegant restraint. Revered for its broad, rich bouquet accentuated by earthy undertones of truffle and mushroom, it is also flavoured with fragrant red fruits, spice, and an invigorating mineral edge. Expertly matured in oak barrels, the wine boasts a beautiful body with a velvety texture and impressive longevity. The vineyard itself, the legendary Clos de l'Echo, is drenched in rich history and its sloping terraces capture the unique "terroir" which nurtures and blossoms such a fine concoction. The Couly-Dutheil Clos de l'Echo Chinon 2014 is a confident expression of mastery over viticulture, offering an unforgettable wine-drinking experience. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£98.93 |
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Damien Laureau, Savennieres, Les Genets 2019 epitomises the elegance and complexity of the Loire Valley's renowned Savennieres appellation. Crafted from meticulously selected Chenin Blanc grapes, cultivated in the chalky soils of Les Genets vineyard, this vintage benefits from Damien Laureau’s unwavering commitment to quality and terroir expression. Hand-harvested at optimal ripeness in autumn 2019, the grapes undergo gentle pressing to preserve their integrity. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, ensuring vibrant acidity and pure fruit flavours are maintained. The wine is then aged sur lie for twelve months, enhancing its texture and developing nuanced notes of orchard fruits, honey, and subtle minerality. Damien Laureau’s expertise and sustainable viticultural practices shine through, resulting in a wine of remarkable depth and longevity. Ideal for both immediate enjoyment and cellaring, Les Genets 2019 is a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and the distinctive character of Savennieres. |
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Loire | 17 | - |
Inc. VAT
£142.40 |
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Discover the sublime elegance of the De La Roulerie Chenin Blanc 2022, a deftly crafted Loire Valley creation, brimming with the tantalising complexity unique to wines from this region. Born from the bountiful vineyards that flank the Layon River, this unrivalled vintage is the creative genius of De La Roulerie, a time-honoured producer notorious for their unwavering commitment to the art of winemaking. Exquisitely produced using a whole cluster press method, this Chenin Blanc delivers a delicate balance of honeyed fruit, zesty acidity, and profound minerality. A prolonged fermentation in French oak barriques further enhances the wine's captivating depth and subtlety. Aromas of honeysuckle, pear, and acacia blossoms are intertwined with undertones of ripe citrus, creating a wine that delights the senses. Whether you're a fine wine aficionado or a discerning newcomer, the De La Roulerie Chenin Blanc 2022 will prove an enriching addition to your collection. |
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Loire | 13 | - |
Inc. VAT
£296.44 |
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Loire | 12 | - |
Inc. VAT
£227.60 |
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The Des Closiers Saumur-Champigny Les Coudraies 2019 is an exquisite red wine exuding the nuanced art of French winemaking. Originating from the Loire Valley vineyards, famed for its rich limestone-clay soils, this intriguing Cabernet Franc displays an elegant charisma born from decades of passion and expertise at the Des Closiers estate. Intense red fruits finely balance earthy undertones, revealing an alluring freshness and intensity on the palate. Aged to perfection in old oak barrels to enrich its expression, its harmonious structure and persistent finish make this wine captivating in its finesse. With the Des Closiers Saumur-Champigny Les Coudraies 2019, the pursuit of excellence extends beyond simply growing superb fruit; it lies in diligently crafting the essence of terroir into each bottle, ensuring every sip is a taste of pure craftsmanship. Truly, it is a beacon of authenticity in an ever-changing wine world. |
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Loire | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£231.95 |
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The Des Closiers Saumur-Champigny Les Coudraies 2020 showcases refined elegance from the Loire Valley. Cultivated from 25-year-old Cabernet Franc vines, this distinguished wine signifies its roots in the prestigious limestone-rich terroirs of Saumur-Champigny. Rigorous sustainable farming methods yield vibrantly fresh, high-quality fruit, meticulously hand-harvested for prime selection. Guided by the principles of minimal intervention, Des Closiers employs traditional vinification techniques, fostering an exceptional expression of terroir. Aged in stainless steel vats, the wine highlights crisp, red fruit flavours, underscored by subtle, earthy notes. Balancing delicate tannins with a spirited acidity, the Des Closiers Saumur-Champigny Les Coudraies 2020 unfolds in a harmonious, lingering finish. As much a testament to the winemaker's craft as the land's bounty, Des Closiers enthrals enthusiasts with its dedication to preserving the integrity, authenticity, and diversity of Loire wines. Savour the Des Closiers Saumur-Champigny Les Coudraies 2020 for a delightful journey into the heart of French artisanal viticulture. |
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Loire | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£1,073.33 |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£542.29 |
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Loire | 1 | 92 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£107.99 |
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Vinous (92)The 2020 Blanc Etc. is a luminous wine, almost like a bright light shining in your eyes. Ansomewhat forceful, austere expression with fruit grown predominantly on flint soils making up two-thirds of the blend gives a sense of firm line and spicy character. There are no pyrazines here; it's all citrus, nectarine and lovely nutty oak (20-25% new). |
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Loire | 2 | 92 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£481.09 |
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Vinous (92)The 2020 Blanc Etc. is a luminous wine, almost like a bright light shining in your eyes. Ansomewhat forceful, austere expression with fruit grown predominantly on flint soils making up two-thirds of the blend gives a sense of firm line and spicy character. There are no pyrazines here; it's all citrus, nectarine and lovely nutty oak (20-25% new). |
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Loire | 1 | 92 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£1,571.99 |
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Vinous (92)Just 400 bottles of Pouilly Fumé Asteroide were made in 2019 from the same vineyard as Pur Sang, but the winemaking is different: half of the wine goes in a glass wine globe (a bit like a bonbonne), the other half in a barrel. This is a more varietal expression of the grape and the vineyard with nettle tea, dill and boxwood. Winemaker Jean-Philippe Agisson suggests this varietal character might be down to the influence of the wine globe. There's a firm, tangy finish and a touch of savory, nuttiness on the length. The Pur Sang is a more complete wine than the Asteroide despite the latter having the rarity X factor due to being ungrafted. Certainly doesn't represent good value! |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£1,832.93 |
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Loire | 9 | 93 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£625.92 |
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Vinous (93)Returning in 2018 after 2017 was wiped out by frosts, this is an intense, wild 2018 Buisson Renard, like an untamed head of curls. In clear evidence at this early stage, it has floral and boxwood characters and a nutty oak-derived influence. There's even an intriguing note of peppermint on the sinewy, lengthy finish. In a mid-weight, linear style with a firm, phenolic finish that almost requires knife and fork. This needs more time in bottle to shed its austere frame, but if you're not in a hurry... |
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Loire | 10 | 92 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£625.09 |
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Vinous (92)The Buisson Renard tends to be a more supple, more aromatically restrained cuvée in the Dagueneau stable, and the 2019 is no different. It's probably the richer clay soils on this section of the domaine. There's a delicate savory, herbal and oak-derived nutty character. It is fine and fresh with a supple texture that holds the mouth like a gentle embrace. |
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Loire | 1 | 95 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£723.12 |
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Vinous (95)Perhaps the most Sauvignon-esque of all the vintage, the 2020 Buisson Renard is richly aromatic with distinctive lime, elderflower, ginger and honeysuckle aromas. It is currently most appealing for its tension as if a strong muscle is being stretched taut. It has masses of concentration and curves in the right places with an attractive sense of bitterness on the long finish. This is even better than when I tasted it from tank last year. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£2,097.20 |
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Introducing the Didier Dagueneau Pouilly-Fume Intouchables 2019, a formidable vintage from one of the most venerated producers in the Loire Valley. Precision, intensity and finesse are the hallmarks of Didier Dagueneau's commitment to expressing the true essence of his terroir. Famed for its flinty soil, the vineyards yield an extraordinary Sauvignon Blanc, infused with complex mineral character. This 2019 vintage is the product of meticulous winemaking and an exceptional growing season. Hand-harvested grapes, low-yield vines, and a temperature-controlled fermentation process contribute to the wine's unique complexity and richness. The resulting wine encapsulates impeccable balance, with vibrant acidity complementing ripe fruit notes and a luxurious mouthfeel. With limited bottles available, the Didier Dagueneau Pouilly-Fume Intouchables 2019 represents an excellent opportunity to savour a sensation from an iconic winemaker known for his relentless pursuit of purity and perfection. A truly unrepeatable experience for the discerning palate. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£831.49 |
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Loire | 2 | 94 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£762.72 |
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Vinous (94)Sourced from a south-facing single vineyard on flint and clay over chalk, the 2018 Pur Sang is all white flowers and spiced apple pastry. Seemingly effortless and silken, its Sauvignon edges rounded out in barrels. It offers excellent concentration on the mid-palate, a line of acidity acting like a thread and holding the core together like a ball. Delectably textured, with a hint of tannic sensation holding the mouth gently on a lengthy conclusion that's drawn-out and precise. A complex, multifaceted wine. |
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Loire | 2 | 96 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£939.12 |
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Vinous (96)What I love most about the 2019 Pur Sang is its focus and precision; the compact, light bodied core carries masses of fragrance across the palate and beyond on the long finish. There's clarity and freshness, with a thread of acidity and minerality pulling the wine through like a needle and thread. It is starting to show the very first hints of time in bottle with a hint of almond alongside the ripe melon notes and nettle tea character. Impressive stuff from this three-hectare parcel in the village of Saint Laurent l'Abbaye, about 5km northeast of the Dagueneau domaine. |
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Loire | 1 | 94-95 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£741.49 |
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Vinous (94-95)The 2020 Pur Sang is a compact and focused style with excellent concentration. It is as pure as glacial water. While tender and charming at first, it offers excellent precision, which is not a word you'd normally associate with the warm 2020 season. There is fine tension and structure with an integrated use of nutty oak combining with a fresh nectarine fragrance on the finish. Tasted as a tank sample, this is a 3-ha vineyard that's about 5km away from Dagueneau HQ, sitting on flint over a bedrock of chalk. |
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Loire | 1 | 18 (JR) |
In Bond
£588.00 |
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Jancis Robinson (18)Elegant and poised with red-berry and floral notes. As is often the case, a burgundian feel. Huge intensity on the palate, the tannins tight and firm but fine as well. Lovely balance. Should age well. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
£72.00 |
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Immerse in the elegant complexities of the Closel Savenniers Jalousie 2014. Produced in the distinguished Savennières region of France's Loire Valley, this esteemed biodynamic wine captures the unique terroir and solar exposition of its vineyard. Steeped in rich tradition, the Domaine du Closel vineyard, managed by the unswerving dedication of Evelyne de Pontbriand, embraces a naturally low yield philosophy, thus ensuring exclusivity and consistent depth of flavor. This Closel Savenniers Jalousie 2014 elegantly displays the distinct Chenin Blanc grapes in a harmonious blend of maturity and vivacity. On the palate, this opulent dry white wine bursts with sophisticated layers of ripe fruits and mineral notes. Hand-harvested, the grapes are meticulously fermented in stainless-steel tanks, subsequently matured 'sur lie' for eight months, imparting a pristine finish brimming with subtle complexities. An elegant ode to traditional winemaking, the Closel Savenniers Jalousie 2014 embodies the heritage of its origin. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
£96.00 |
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The exquisite Closel Savenniers Papillon 2020 hails from the revered Château des Vaults estate, situated amongst the historic vineyards of Savennières in France's Loire Valley. Respected vintner, Evelyne de Pontbriand, nurtures her vineyards using organic and biodynamic principles, resulting in a wine that's much-lauded for its purity and elegance. The Closel Savenniers Papillon 2020 is a Chenin Blanc made from grapes hand-harvested then meticulously sorted to ensure only the highest quality fruit graces your glass. The maturation process, in traditional oak, imparts subtle complexity to the wine that's a sheer treat to the palate. Spellbindingly structured, this golden-hued beauty unveils a rich tapestry of dried honey, apple, and acacia notes, encased within a refined mineral envelope, and graced by a lively acidity. If you're looking for a wine that mirrors the French tradition of careful, hands-on winemaking, Closel Savenniers Papillon 2020 is indisputably the bottle for you. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
£58.80 |
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Exemplifying the elegance of the Loire Valley, the Cotelleraie Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil 2014 is a red wine masterpiece from the revered Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil region. Produced by Domaine de la Cotelleraie, a vineyard with eminent recognition for its meticulous dedication to sustainable practices and profound expertise of the Cabernet Franc grape. An expressive archival of terroir philosophy, this vintage attests to the inimitable loamy, gravel character of the land. Following traditional vinification, an extended maturation in seasoned oak crafts a harmonious composition of ripe red fruits, autumnal spices, and a masterful tannin structure. The 2014 vinification period yielded an elegant, well-rounded finish that transcends the familiarity of Cabernet Franc. Revel in the expressive bouquet, and the beautifully balanced, velvety texture. A luminous example of its vintage, the Cotelleraie Saint Nicolas de Bourgueil 2014 showcases the epitome of elegance in French winemaking. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
£105.00 |
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The Couly-Dutheil Clos de l'Echo Chinon 2014 is an exalted red wine from the renowned Loire Valley of France. This exceptional vintage, produced by esteemed vigneron Couly-Dutheil, is carefully crafted from the sumptuous Cabernet Franc grape variety, epitomising the quintessence of Chinon wines. At its heart, raw power meets elegant restraint. Revered for its broad, rich bouquet accentuated by earthy undertones of truffle and mushroom, it is also flavoured with fragrant red fruits, spice, and an invigorating mineral edge. Expertly matured in oak barrels, the wine boasts a beautiful body with a velvety texture and impressive longevity. The vineyard itself, the legendary Clos de l'Echo, is drenched in rich history and its sloping terraces capture the unique "terroir" which nurtures and blossoms such a fine concoction. The Couly-Dutheil Clos de l'Echo Chinon 2014 is a confident expression of mastery over viticulture, offering an unforgettable wine-drinking experience. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
£79.00 |
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Damien Laureau, Savennieres, Les Genets 2019 epitomises the elegance and complexity of the Loire Valley's renowned Savennieres appellation. Crafted from meticulously selected Chenin Blanc grapes, cultivated in the chalky soils of Les Genets vineyard, this vintage benefits from Damien Laureau’s unwavering commitment to quality and terroir expression. Hand-harvested at optimal ripeness in autumn 2019, the grapes undergo gentle pressing to preserve their integrity. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, ensuring vibrant acidity and pure fruit flavours are maintained. The wine is then aged sur lie for twelve months, enhancing its texture and developing nuanced notes of orchard fruits, honey, and subtle minerality. Damien Laureau’s expertise and sustainable viticultural practices shine through, resulting in a wine of remarkable depth and longevity. Ideal for both immediate enjoyment and cellaring, Les Genets 2019 is a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and the distinctive character of Savennieres. |
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Loire | 17 | - |
In Bond
£98.00 |
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Discover the sublime elegance of the De La Roulerie Chenin Blanc 2022, a deftly crafted Loire Valley creation, brimming with the tantalising complexity unique to wines from this region. Born from the bountiful vineyards that flank the Layon River, this unrivalled vintage is the creative genius of De La Roulerie, a time-honoured producer notorious for their unwavering commitment to the art of winemaking. Exquisitely produced using a whole cluster press method, this Chenin Blanc delivers a delicate balance of honeyed fruit, zesty acidity, and profound minerality. A prolonged fermentation in French oak barriques further enhances the wine's captivating depth and subtlety. Aromas of honeysuckle, pear, and acacia blossoms are intertwined with undertones of ripe citrus, creating a wine that delights the senses. Whether you're a fine wine aficionado or a discerning newcomer, the De La Roulerie Chenin Blanc 2022 will prove an enriching addition to your collection. |
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Loire | 13 | - |
In Bond
£231.00 |
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Loire | 12 | - |
In Bond
£169.00 |
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The Des Closiers Saumur-Champigny Les Coudraies 2019 is an exquisite red wine exuding the nuanced art of French winemaking. Originating from the Loire Valley vineyards, famed for its rich limestone-clay soils, this intriguing Cabernet Franc displays an elegant charisma born from decades of passion and expertise at the Des Closiers estate. Intense red fruits finely balance earthy undertones, revealing an alluring freshness and intensity on the palate. Aged to perfection in old oak barrels to enrich its expression, its harmonious structure and persistent finish make this wine captivating in its finesse. With the Des Closiers Saumur-Champigny Les Coudraies 2019, the pursuit of excellence extends beyond simply growing superb fruit; it lies in diligently crafting the essence of terroir into each bottle, ensuring every sip is a taste of pure craftsmanship. Truly, it is a beacon of authenticity in an ever-changing wine world. |
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Loire | 2 | - |
In Bond
£174.00 |
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The Des Closiers Saumur-Champigny Les Coudraies 2020 showcases refined elegance from the Loire Valley. Cultivated from 25-year-old Cabernet Franc vines, this distinguished wine signifies its roots in the prestigious limestone-rich terroirs of Saumur-Champigny. Rigorous sustainable farming methods yield vibrantly fresh, high-quality fruit, meticulously hand-harvested for prime selection. Guided by the principles of minimal intervention, Des Closiers employs traditional vinification techniques, fostering an exceptional expression of terroir. Aged in stainless steel vats, the wine highlights crisp, red fruit flavours, underscored by subtle, earthy notes. Balancing delicate tannins with a spirited acidity, the Des Closiers Saumur-Champigny Les Coudraies 2020 unfolds in a harmonious, lingering finish. As much a testament to the winemaker's craft as the land's bounty, Des Closiers enthrals enthusiasts with its dedication to preserving the integrity, authenticity, and diversity of Loire wines. Savour the Des Closiers Saumur-Champigny Les Coudraies 2020 for a delightful journey into the heart of French artisanal viticulture. |
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Loire | 2 | - |
In Bond
£891.00 |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
£434.00 |
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Loire | 1 | 92 (VN) |
In Bond
£87.00 |
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Vinous (92)The 2020 Blanc Etc. is a luminous wine, almost like a bright light shining in your eyes. Ansomewhat forceful, austere expression with fruit grown predominantly on flint soils making up two-thirds of the blend gives a sense of firm line and spicy character. There are no pyrazines here; it's all citrus, nectarine and lovely nutty oak (20-25% new). |
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Loire | 2 | 92 (VN) |
In Bond
£383.00 |
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Vinous (92)The 2020 Blanc Etc. is a luminous wine, almost like a bright light shining in your eyes. Ansomewhat forceful, austere expression with fruit grown predominantly on flint soils making up two-thirds of the blend gives a sense of firm line and spicy character. There are no pyrazines here; it's all citrus, nectarine and lovely nutty oak (20-25% new). |
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|
|
Loire | 1 | 92 (VN) |
In Bond
£1,307.00 |
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Vinous (92)Just 400 bottles of Pouilly Fumé Asteroide were made in 2019 from the same vineyard as Pur Sang, but the winemaking is different: half of the wine goes in a glass wine globe (a bit like a bonbonne), the other half in a barrel. This is a more varietal expression of the grape and the vineyard with nettle tea, dill and boxwood. Winemaker Jean-Philippe Agisson suggests this varietal character might be down to the influence of the wine globe. There's a firm, tangy finish and a touch of savory, nuttiness on the length. The Pur Sang is a more complete wine than the Asteroide despite the latter having the rarity X factor due to being ungrafted. Certainly doesn't represent good value! |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
£1,524.00 |
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Loire | 9 | 93 (VN) |
In Bond
£503.00 |
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Vinous (93)Returning in 2018 after 2017 was wiped out by frosts, this is an intense, wild 2018 Buisson Renard, like an untamed head of curls. In clear evidence at this early stage, it has floral and boxwood characters and a nutty oak-derived influence. There's even an intriguing note of peppermint on the sinewy, lengthy finish. In a mid-weight, linear style with a firm, phenolic finish that almost requires knife and fork. This needs more time in bottle to shed its austere frame, but if you're not in a hurry... |
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|
Loire | 10 | 92 (VN) |
In Bond
£503.00 |
|||||
Vinous (92)The Buisson Renard tends to be a more supple, more aromatically restrained cuvée in the Dagueneau stable, and the 2019 is no different. It's probably the richer clay soils on this section of the domaine. There's a delicate savory, herbal and oak-derived nutty character. It is fine and fresh with a supple texture that holds the mouth like a gentle embrace. |
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|
|
Loire | 1 | 95 (VN) |
In Bond
£584.00 |
|||||
Vinous (95)Perhaps the most Sauvignon-esque of all the vintage, the 2020 Buisson Renard is richly aromatic with distinctive lime, elderflower, ginger and honeysuckle aromas. It is currently most appealing for its tension as if a strong muscle is being stretched taut. It has masses of concentration and curves in the right places with an attractive sense of bitterness on the long finish. This is even better than when I tasted it from tank last year. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
£1,727.00 |
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Introducing the Didier Dagueneau Pouilly-Fume Intouchables 2019, a formidable vintage from one of the most venerated producers in the Loire Valley. Precision, intensity and finesse are the hallmarks of Didier Dagueneau's commitment to expressing the true essence of his terroir. Famed for its flinty soil, the vineyards yield an extraordinary Sauvignon Blanc, infused with complex mineral character. This 2019 vintage is the product of meticulous winemaking and an exceptional growing season. Hand-harvested grapes, low-yield vines, and a temperature-controlled fermentation process contribute to the wine's unique complexity and richness. The resulting wine encapsulates impeccable balance, with vibrant acidity complementing ripe fruit notes and a luxurious mouthfeel. With limited bottles available, the Didier Dagueneau Pouilly-Fume Intouchables 2019 represents an excellent opportunity to savour a sensation from an iconic winemaker known for his relentless pursuit of purity and perfection. A truly unrepeatable experience for the discerning palate. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
£675.00 |
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Loire | 2 | 94 (VN) |
In Bond
£617.00 |
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Vinous (94)Sourced from a south-facing single vineyard on flint and clay over chalk, the 2018 Pur Sang is all white flowers and spiced apple pastry. Seemingly effortless and silken, its Sauvignon edges rounded out in barrels. It offers excellent concentration on the mid-palate, a line of acidity acting like a thread and holding the core together like a ball. Delectably textured, with a hint of tannic sensation holding the mouth gently on a lengthy conclusion that's drawn-out and precise. A complex, multifaceted wine. |
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Loire | 2 | 96 (VN) |
In Bond
£764.00 |
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Vinous (96)What I love most about the 2019 Pur Sang is its focus and precision; the compact, light bodied core carries masses of fragrance across the palate and beyond on the long finish. There's clarity and freshness, with a thread of acidity and minerality pulling the wine through like a needle and thread. It is starting to show the very first hints of time in bottle with a hint of almond alongside the ripe melon notes and nettle tea character. Impressive stuff from this three-hectare parcel in the village of Saint Laurent l'Abbaye, about 5km northeast of the Dagueneau domaine. |
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Loire | 1 | 94-95 (VN) |
In Bond
£600.00 |
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Vinous (94-95)The 2020 Pur Sang is a compact and focused style with excellent concentration. It is as pure as glacial water. While tender and charming at first, it offers excellent precision, which is not a word you'd normally associate with the warm 2020 season. There is fine tension and structure with an integrated use of nutty oak combining with a fresh nectarine fragrance on the finish. Tasted as a tank sample, this is a 3-ha vineyard that's about 5km away from Dagueneau HQ, sitting on flint over a bedrock of chalk. |
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