2018 Marc Bredif Classic Vouvray Museum Release, Loire Valley

Marc Bredif Classic Vouvray Museum Release from the Loire Valley is a glorious reminder of just how gracefully Chenin Blanc can age. Marc Brédif has always been one of Vouvray’s great traditionalists, sourcing fruit from limestone and tuffeau rich vineyards that sit high above the Loire River. These ancient chalk soils give Chenin its hallmark tension and a cool mineral hum. The Museum Release is drawn from vintages that have slumbered in Brédif’s deep, dark troglodyte cellars for many years before being made available in tiny allocations. Time transforms the wine, softening the youthful citrus edges into a tapestry of honeyed, floral and savoury complexity while preserving the natural acidity that keeps it vibrant.

Aromas unfold with deep generosity. Poached pear, quince paste and preserved lemon meet honeycomb, white flowers and hints of apricot. Underneath lies the signature Vouvray profile of wool, lanolin and a cool, stony tension. With more air, the bouquet ventures into richer territory: chamomile, beeswax, almond nougat and gentle dried fruit. There is a subtle oxidative note like apple tarte tatin, beautifully integrated by the years.

The palate is silken, concentrated and wonderfully harmonious. Layers of pear, lemon curd and baked apple glide across a creamy, lees influenced texture. Hints of ginger, toasted nuts, honeysuckle and savoury spice fold in, delivering depth without heaviness. The acidity remains bright and precise, stretching the finish long with citrus oil, honeyed fruit and chalky minerality. Its balance makes it hugely versatile across sweetness levels, but the overarching sensation is one of poise and slow-built complexity. With more cellaring, it will continue to evolve into deeper realms of truffle, marmalade and roasted hazelnut.

An exceptional match for roast pork with apple, duck and orange, chicken in creamy sauces, rich seafood dishes, washed rind cheeses, Comté, or pâté with crusty bread. It’s also the sort of wine that deserves a quiet evening and a wide glass to explore every evolving layer.