2024 Dm De Ladoucette Pouilly-Fume, Loire Valley

The smoky flint soils of Pouilly Fumé have produced some of the Loire Valley's most distinctive Sauvignon Blanc for centuries, and no estate is more closely associated with the appellation than Domaine de Ladoucette. Under the stewardship of Baron Patrick de Ladoucette, the estate has become an international benchmark, combining meticulous vineyard management with a commitment to expressing the unique terroirs that define this celebrated region. Few producers have done more to establish Pouilly Fumé as one of the world's great dry white wines.

The vineyards are planted on a patchwork of flint, limestone and clay soils overlooking the Loire River, where cool conditions encourage slow ripening and remarkable aromatic intensity. The 2024 vintage delivered beautifully balanced fruit with vibrant acidity and exceptional purity. Gentle fermentation in stainless steel preserves the wine's freshness, allowing the distinctive mineral character of Pouilly Fumé to shine.

Pale straw with shimmering green highlights, the bouquet opens with aromas of grapefruit, lime zest and white peach layered with notes of elderflower, fresh herbs and the classic flinty, smoky character that gives Pouilly Fumé its name. The palate is crisp and beautifully textured, revealing flavours of citrus, green apple and ripe pear supported by lively acidity and a chalky mineral backbone. The finish is long, dry and elegant, lingering with citrus, wet stone and subtle smoky nuances.

This is a superb partner for freshly shucked oysters, grilled scallops, lobster, goat's cheese, trout with herbs or asparagus with beurre blanc. Equally rewarding as an aperitif, it captures the precision, freshness and unmistakable mineral character that have made Pouilly Fumé one of France's finest white wine styles.