When under the management of its original founder, Charles Joguet, the domaine was one of the first in the Loire to vinify the grapes from each parcel separately to produce individual cuvees – a la Burgundy. Hence terroir has always been of prime importance here and the vineyards are managed accordingly. No weed-killers or pesticides are used and great care is taken to ensure that any treatments that are employed are not detrimental to the soil. For a number of years they have adopted the ‘integrated pest management’ method. This necessitates a very close observation of the vineyard and specialist knowledge of the biology of any disease. The followers of biodynamic viticulture do not impress Alain. Although he is against treating vines systematically, he says that it is impossible for a vine never to suffer from a disease, rot or mildew and that at such times, treatments are a unavoidable – albeit as lightly as possible. He does not believe in the influences of the moon on the vine or wine either and pays no heed to its position, even at bottling.
The Franc de Pied is only available in the finest years and is produced from a one-hectare plot of non-grafted vines on the silico-clay and silico-calcareous terroir of the Varennes du Grands Clos. The vines were originally planted in 1982 and parts had to be re-planted in 1992 and 1995. When vintages allow this plot is vinified separately in order to recapture the qualities of the pre-grafted Cabernet Franc. Yields are reduced to a maximum of 30 hl/ha here.
Per case ex VAT
Loire
2003 Chinon 'Chene Vert' Lovely purity of ripe red fruits on the bouquet – sweet and fragrant. Delicious, mouth watering, red berry fruits on the palate sweet and seductive but seriously structured and impeccably balanced once again. Another really stylish wine with regal finish. (VR)
192.00
2003 Chinon 'Cuvee Terroir' Clean, extremely ripe and youthful with pronounced aromas of red/ blackcurrant/ cherry. Clean, dry on the palate, luscious and extremely fruity, very soft tannins and soft acidity, medium bodied, straightforward, with a suggestion of herbs. (CG)
97.00
2005 Chinon 'Clos de La Dioterie' Superb nose – incredibly pure, ripe, sweet scented black berry fruits. Wonderful extraction on the palate – real intensity here – fabulous concentration and complexity but once again retaining a refined elegance. (VR)
192.00
2005 Chinon 'Fran de Pied' This is much more intense and fragrant on the nose with amazing purity once again. The palate is unbelievably concentrated but harmonious. Unctuous and intense but perfectly balanced and retaining poise and elegance. (VR)
178.00
2005 Chinon 'Petit Roches' Deep purple in the glass. Incredible, ripe, black, smoky fruit on the nose. The palate is wonderfully ripe with delicious black fruits and fine balance of acidity. Very harmonious with no hint of aggression. (VR)
108.00
Except where indicated all wines are priced per case of 12x75cl exclusive of VAT and onward UK carriage.
Delivery charges (exclusive of VAT):-
1 case - £10.95
2-3 cases - £9.50
4 + cases - FREE
E&OE. All wines are available subject to remaining unsold.
For export and all customers requiring the facilities of a bond the majority of our wines are available without duty under bond.
Current duty rates per 12 x 75cl,
still wines £17.50
sparkling wines £22.40
fortified wines £23.32
Anniversary Vintages We are frequently asked to source whiskies and Armagnacs for anniversaries and birthday.
So if you're looking for a particular vintage to celebrate a special occasion, look no further. Vintage whisky, armagnac & cognac.
