2022 Pouilly Fumé AOC Les Croqloups, Domaine Chauveau , 75.cl

Tiny vineyard in the heart of the Pouilly Fume appellation in the Loire Valley. The Chauveau family produce one of the region's most highly rated wines from their Sauvignon grapes, which are let to ripen to full maturity before harvest, then destalked and selected on the sorting tables.

Benoit and Emmanuelle Chauveau are our go to growers for this ever popular classic white wine. The grapes are from a small plot of 1.5 hectares producing only 8000 bottles. The couple farm with utmost respect for the environment, climate and soil – no chemicals are used with the focus on maintaining the quality of the vineyard for future generations. The soil is aerated and only the very best grapes are selected for vinification. Traditional production methods are used including ageing on the lees and a second natural fermentation. No oak. Very light filtration to preserve all the flavour and freshness of the fruit.

Bright, expressive nose packed with gooseberry and chamomile. Complex palate with plenty of minerality alongside ripe green apple, lemon and honeysuckle with a very light hint of smoke and spice. Beautifully long finish. Exceptionally well balanced.