Clos de l'Ecotard Saumur Les Pentes 2018 Blanc
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The domaine de l'Ecotard in the Loire: Saumur wines of haute couture
Nestled on the hillsides of the Saumurois, in the Loire Valley, the Clos de l'Écotard is one of the best-kept secrets of the Saumur appellation. Founded by Michel Chevré, who was long the vineyard manager at the Domaine des Roches Neuves under Thierry Germain, this family estate crafts dry chenins of striking purity, now joined by reds, a chardonnay, and rare sparkling wines made by the traditional method. Fifteen hectares farmed organically and according to biodynamic principles, with soil work done by horse, and winemaking free of artifice.
Furthermore, the first vintages were vinified and marketed through Thierry Germain, whose reputation needed no introduction, and who thus supported Michel Chevré — the latter having worked extensively at the domaine de Thierry Germain, notably for the transition to organic farming in 2002 as well as during the creation of the parcel-specific chenin cuvée known as "l'Insolite." In establishing his own domaine de l'Ecotard, Michel Chevré carefully applied the same methods as at Thierry Germain's, proving as demanding as possible, and it must be said that it was a resounding success. On this small 3-hectare domaine de l'Ecotard, Michel Chevré has managed to produce 3 chenin cuvées that are entirely worthy of ranking among the great white wines of the Loire. From La Haie Nardin (sandy-clay) to the Les Pentes cuvée (a hillside where limestone breaks through the surface), passing through the emblematic Clos de l'Écotard cuvée (planted at 8,000 vines/ha and aged in various barrels and stoneware jars), these whites already stand among the greatest of the Saumurois. Assisted by his son Thibaud, he vinifies Saumurs of a very 'haute couture' style, and the "Clos de l'Ecotard" cuvée has not finished making waves. Produced from mature white Chenin grapes planted on a limestone mound with full southern exposure and managed using organic farming, this cuvée benefits from full barrel vinification with one year of ageing on fine lees. The nose develops complex aromas that evolve rapidly in the glass, with finely toasted and mineral notes, followed by very subtle hints of mirabelle plum and quince. On the palate, the attack is at once lively and velvety, full-bodied and distinguished, with a chalky sensation on the tongue. The finish is very long, with a slight smoky edge over fine bitter notes. A truly great juice best enjoyed between 4 and 8 years. The Les Pentes cuvée from the domaine de l'Ecotard is moving upmarket, very mineral, chiselled and taut. The vines here are planted on soils where limestone reaches the surface. No wood for this cuvée, which shines through its precision and mineral freshness, with a very impressive, gunflint-smoky nose, complemented by citrus fruit and a floral touch. On the palate, the attack is broad, with a powerful yet chiselled body, finishing on a very fresh and saline note. The La Haie Nardin cuvée from the domaine de l'Ecotard is the very latest cuvée produced by Thibaud, assisted by his father Michel, who is gently handing over the reins. This cuvée, drawn from sandy-clay soils, is always a pure, generous chenin whose nose literally explodes with juicy notes of white fruits and citrus, with an anise touch. The attack, dynamic and fresh, stretches across a remarkable volume on the palate, linear and pure, followed by a mouth-watering finish. Great white wines to be highly recommended…
Would you like to purchase a bottle of wine from the domaine de l'Ecotard? Discover our selection of wines from the domaine de l'Ecotard as well as other great Loire producers such as Alain Lenoir, Antoine Sanzay, Bernard Baudry, Charles Joguet, Clau de Nell, Foreau, François Cotat, Pascal Cotat, Alphonse Mellot, Vacheron, Clos Rougeard, Coulée de Serrant, Didier Dagueneau, Edmond Vatan, Gérard Boulay, Guiberteau, Huet, Jérôme Bretaudeau, Philippe Alliet, Richard Leroy, Saint Nicolas, Stephane Bernaudeau, Vacheron etc.... Bottle, Magnum…. With Vins et Millésimes, buying wine online has never been so easy! Always 100% in stock, with fast shipping and at the best price!
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