We are delighted that our new grower in Menetou Salon has received awards for both their red and white wines. Domaine de l'Ermitage's Menetou Salon Blanc 2013 has won Silver and the Grand Vin Rouge 2012 has won Gold at the International Wine Challenge.
Last week Antoine De La Farge paid us a visit in London. His wines are proving a hit in Vinoteca, offering customers an interesting alternative to Sancerre.
Menetou Salon is an appellation in the central vineyards of the Loire, and neighbours Sancerre. Like in Sancerre, white wine is made from Sauvignon Blanc, and red and rosé from Pinot Noir. The domaine was established in 2003 by Laurence and Géraud De La Farge who have been joined by their son, Antoine. The domaine is 12 hectares in total, with three quarters of the production dedicated to white wine, and the rest to red and rosé. Everything is hand picked, and Antoine explained that they use indigenous yeast to ferment both whites and reds. This means an extended fermentation period for the whites especially, which would usually zip through if inoculated with selected yeasts. The result is a very pure style of Sauvignon that focuses on texture and balanced weight with aromas of pink grapefruit, and a supple mouthfeel. It is classic and Old World in profile (restrained fruit, concentrated acidity) and is an exciting new addition to our portfolio.
