Roche Bleue 2022 Coteaux du Loir La Belle D'Aunis

The talented Sébastien Cornille is making some of the most beautiful wines in Jasnières and the Coteaux du Loir - The 2022 "Belle d'Aunis" is 100% Pineau d'Aunis from old vines in clay with silex soils over limestone in the Coteaux du Loir; 2 to 3 week semi-carbonic maceration in foudre, slow pressing followed by one year of aging in 1 to 3 year-old barrels. This is old-vine Pineau d'Aunis made in a style that preserves the delicacy and beauty of the fruit, even in a very ripe vintage such as 2022. A sample tasted last winter showed lovely perfumed aromas of pomegranate, red currant and ripe raspberry with a bit of white pepper and earth. The palate was bright and sappy with dense red berries and mineral flavors with firm but silky tannins and a lingering finish of refreshing acidity and vibrant fruit. Here is a recent note in the Review du Vin de France: "A nose of sweet spices and pepper, a silky and refreshing palate where the pineau d'aunis expresses its magnificent potential for finesse and character, well accompanied by delicate aging in barrels. An example of the simplicity and purity of grand Pineau d’Aunis. Drink now or in 10 years!" We have loved every vintage of this wine and recommend it highly! -David Lillie