2018 Bernard Baudry Chinon Les Grézeaux, Loire Valley
A$67.07
Availability:
Out of stock
SKU
B19514V18
Organic. The Clos Guillot vineyard is situated on a southeast-facing slope in Chinon with soils of clay, chalk and yellow limestone (known locally as tuffeau). Harvesting is by hand and yields never exceed 40 hl/ha. Fermentation takes place in large wooden fermenters with regular pigéage (with the aim of providing gentle extraction of supple tannins). After maceration of about 20 days, the wine is pressed off and then matured for 12 months in oak barrels that have seen two or three vintages, followed by nine months in cement. Bottled without filtration.
Matthieu Baudry describes Le Clos Guillot as a “very pure expression of Chinon.” The 2018 is large-boned but again, we are not complaining. Pouring crimson/ruby red, this combines the richness and power of the year with the vineyard’s trademark purity. At its core are dark berry fruits, floral nuances and a hint of complexing bay leaf. And, while this saturates the palate, the energy of the wine is palpable—sophisticated, silky tannins and bright acidity round out a wine that is balanced enough to enjoy now but will also go the distance.
Tasted from barrel with Matthieu, this will see out 12 months in barrel, then 12 months in cuve. It also displays an incredibly dense colour in the glass. The nose is smoky and expressive, wrapped in toasted elements from the barrels, with intertwined floral notes, violet and peony. A very tense and direct style on the palate, yet it remains supple and polished. Cool, with vibrant acidity, which seems to lift the fragrant floral elements, bringing to the fore scents of roses and violets. Behind this is the grip of the tannins, lush and long. This is incredible, so very complete, with silky harmony and such purity, but also depth and substance.
95-97 points Chris Kissack The Wine Doctor
| Product/Service Sold Out | No |
|---|---|
| En Primeur | No |
| New Arrivals | No |
| Wine Type | Red Wine |
| Wine Style | Certified Organic |
| Country | France |
| Varietals | Cabernet Franc |
| Vintage | 2018 |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Wine Points | 95-97 |
Write Your Own Review