Moelleux 2019, Montlouis sur Loire La Taille aux Loups | Loire

On the south-facing siliceous-clay slopes of the estate's best clos, the Montlouis-sur-Loire Moelleux de La Taille aux Loups is the result of an exacting selection of the latest Chenin selections. The Domaine de la Taille aux Loups opted for an over-ripe harvest, allowing the grapes to settle slightly on the stump before meticulously harvesting them in several passages. The flint-rich slopes of Montlouis sur Loire rest on a hard limestone bedrock, giving tension and relief to the old Chenin vines. The Blot family 's masterful winemaking process naturally reveals the wine's complexity, with no oenological tricks or malolactic fermentation. After a slow fermentation using indigenous yeasts and a year's ageing on fine lees in used barrels, followed by several years' rest in bottle, the cuvée bears the Blot family's recognizable hallmark in its impressive balance of sugar, acid and fat.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : The Montlouis-sur-Loire Moelleux de La Taille aux Loups illustrates the precision of the work initiated by Jacky Blot and continued by his son Jean-Philippe. Moelleux winemaking is ideally suited to old Chenin vines, which reveal the full complexity of Montlouis flint. The balance between concentration and freshness gives the wine a rare energy, which will be followed with relish over several decades.

On the nose, the wine immediately impresses with its complexity, intensely unfolding ripe aromas of quince paste, candied citrus zest and stewed exotic fruit. Characteristic notes of acacia honey, lime blossom and gingerbread complete this delicious palette, while aeration reveals the iodized, slightly smoky freshness of the flinty terroir.

The palate matches the nose, its delicate sweetness blending perfectly with scents of mint and licorice. There are also hints of sweet spices, cloves and even a hint of malt. Simply great wine.

On the palate, the delicate sweetness of this Montlouis sur Loire Moelleux is energized by perfectly-adjusted saline tension. Flavors of candied fruit, tangerine and passion fruit stretch to touches of honey that coat the palate with their suavity. Far from heaviness, the mineral freshness of the finish sharpens the sweet spice flavors and prolongs the tasting experience with breathtaking balance.