Loire Valley | 2014 vintage
This is an outstanding vintage, in both red and white, everywhere in the Loire. A mild spring meant early budding but this was followed by a cool and damp summer. However, a fantastic Indian summer meant ideal conditions for a slow ripening period all over the region.
The Sauvignon and Chenin whites are superb. The maturity is there, combined with a wonderful crisp acidity - the undeniable hallmark of the 2014 vintage. Volumes are poor in some places, especially Montlouis. These wines are highly likely to age well. There are also some excellent moelleux and demi-sec wines in this vintage. However, the reduced alcohol levels mean it hasn't been possible to produce excellent sweet whites.
The reds are magnificent - ripe, well put together with a beautiful texture. The rather marked acidity makes for an easy to drink and moreish wine without a hint of sharpness.