Les Parcelles, Sauvignon Blanc, Val de Loire 2014 - Gold Medal

The Loire is the master of Sauvignon Blanc but beyond the well known regions of Pouilly Fume, Sancerre and Muscadet there is much more to discover. Les Parcelles is produced by Domaine Rethore Davy which is located in old wine making country on the Mauges plateau. The nearest village to the domaine is Saint Remy en Mauges which lies between Angers, Nantes and Cholet. The vines are grown at an altitude of 150 metres on slopes created by the River Evre.

Rethore Davy produces artisan wines under the Anjou and Val de Loire AOCs. The domaine practices sustainable agriculture under Terra Vitis and has a deep respect for the land. The results are award winning, cool climate wines with a surprisingly modern taste - elegant, expressive and fresh. Their Sauvignon Blanc is harvested in the 3rd week of September in the cool of dawn to preserve the aromas.

The domaine is divided into different vineyard plots; each on a specific soil type. Les Parcelles Sauvignon Blanc is produced from their plots of prime, arid soils: 'Les Pierres Blanches' and 'Les Rinieres'. The plots are known as 'parcelles' (parcels) in French and sit on weathered silty soils containing quartz and flint over schist. These soils help to express the best characteristics of Sauvignon Blanc - quartz gives finesse and elegance; schist creates powerful fruit and structure.

Les Parcelles is gorgeous as an aperitif and marries well with the classic pairings of seafood, grilled fish, sushi, quiche and soft cheeses – especially goats cheese. It can accompany vegetarian fare with style; such as mixed bean salads, stuffed peppers or courgettes as well as butternut squash risotto. It also pairs well with chicken, pork and creamy pasta dishes.