Description

PRODUCER:
This family-owned winery is the venture of Joost and Miguela de Willebois, who are descendants of an old French family, established in the Netherlands since the 19th century (where the V became a W). Passionate about French culture and the Loire Valley, Joost and Miguela settled in Touraine in 1996, after being enchanted by Loire Sauvignon Blanc. They cultivate a range of terroirs across appellations within the Loire Valley, combining modern techniques, innovation and experimentation, with respect for the soils and the terroir. They fully believe that by being as close to nature as possible, they can capture the soul of the land. Patrice Merceron, winemaker and agricultural engineer, joined in 2014 and guides a team of dedicated winegrowers and winemakers to produce stunning Sauvignon Blanc wines, which reflect the nuances of the Loire Valley.

VINEYARD:
The Sauvignon Blanc grapes come from the Menetou-Salon AOP, which is located at the eastern end of the Loire Valley wine region. The fruit comes from a combination of vineyards which are situated in the villages of Morogues and Humbligny. The soils are made up of Kimmeridgian marls, a special combination of limestone and clay which provides good structure, ideal water retention, and is easy to cultivate. The soils are revered for producing fine and elegant wines. The climate is temperate with continental influences and wide variations in seasonal temperatures.

WINEMAKING:
The grapes were gently pressed in a pneumatic press following 12-hour skin maceration to extract richer colour, flavour and aromatics. The juice was traditionally fermented with selected yeasts in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Fermentation lasted for seven to 15 days, followed by maturation in stainless steel tanks for a minimum of six months, on its fine lees to impart volume and texture. Bottling took place during the spring following the harvest.

TASTING NOTE:
A refreshing and richly flavoured Sauvignon Blanc with exotic fruit flavours of juicy peach, complemented by delicate notes of wild flowers. Soft and rounded, with a lovely crisp, mouthwatering finish.

GRAPES:
Sauvignon Blanc 100%.

AWARDS:
• 91 Points, James Suckling, 2024
• 91 Points, Wine Enthusiast, 2024