Vouvray Methode Traditionelle (Sp.) 2019

Clos de La Meslerie is an organic estate near Vouvray that grows only one grape, Chenin Blanc, and usually makes only one cuvée. But occasionally when conditions are ideal, winemaker Peter Hahn will make an additional wine, this champagne-style Extra Brut sparkling Chenin with zero dosage. Dry, ample and rich in the mouth with a rounded mineral finish. Light notes of Indian tonic and bitter lemon. Vibrant, mineral and crisp. Drink at 6-8° C. Residual sugar approx. 2g/l.

The domaine employs a non-interventionist approach in all aspect of Chenin blanc production. The winemaker Peter Hahn uses no herbicides, no pesticides and only the lowest-necessary low dose of copper sulfate. Thirty to sixty year-old vines grown in gently-tilled flint-clay soils. Grapes are all hand-harvested and rigorously selected. Extremely low yields in 2109 (16hl p/ha) lead to intense flavours. Gentle, slow juice extraction from a 100-year old hand press.

Vinification: Barrel fermented and aged on lees for 11 months, stirred regularly by hand to encourage natural aromas and protect from oxidation. No new oak, and no fining or cold-treatment of the wine. Only 4500 bottles produced, each individually numbered.

Match it with: A stellar aperitif with any seafood-based canapés. Ideal with grilled sea bass and a coriander and lemon sauce, or lobster with butter.