2019 Domaine de Bel Air, Pouilly Fume, 12x750ml

2019 Domaine de Bel Air, Pouilly-Fume

The Mauroy family's vineyards are located on the South facing slopes of Pouilly-sur-Loire and Saint-Andelain, the village originally made famous by Didier Dagueneau. In the past, Domaine de Bel Air sold most of its production in bulk. However, the arrival on the scene of daughter Katia as winemaker has heralded huge improvements at the gravity fed winery. The resulting wines are serious yet generous and among the best in the appellation. Gold and trophies at the IWC awards for the past few years are testament to the phenomenal value this wine offers.

Domaine de Bel Air has 14 hectares of Sauvignon Blanc vineyards on different soils: Kimmeridgian limestone, clay-chalk (argilo-calcaire) and sandy chalk. The finished wine is a blend of parcels planted on three different soil types, giving a wine with added complexity and depth. The vineyards are south-facing and benefit from a favourable microclimate thanks to their very close proximity to the River Loire, which moderates the cold temperatures of the region, encouraging greater ripeness and flavour development.

The grapes were pressed in a Bucher pneumatic press which ensured good but gentle extraction of the aromatic Sauvignon Blanc character. The juice is cold settled before fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled, stainless-steel tanks. The wine remained on its lees for 3-4 months before racking and bottling.

The 2019 vintage was very hot and dry. Harvest took place over four days in the middle of September and grapes were picked in the early hours of the morning to avoid the high temperatures and preserve the quality of the fruit.