We have previously reviewed the 2009 rendition of the Savennieres Roche-Aux-Moines from Chateau Pierre Bise on these pages. The 2011 vintage follows in similarly fine form, albeit as a more delicate and slightly reticent incarnation of the 2009.
Loire Chenin Blanc, whether it be Vouvray, Anjou, Montlouis or Savennieres, has never quite gone mainstream. It tends to be very much a food style, often mineral rather than fruit driven, and dare I say, a rather ‘adult’ style of wine. It can, however, be highly rewarding, and prices are generally reasonably, especially when compared with white Burgundy and the best examples of dry white Bordeaux.
This release is true to style. Decanted before drinking, it only started to open up after a good hour to an hour and a half, revealing typical notes of green apple and crushed rock minerality. It is a savoury white wine, one that drinks a bit like a red wine. It should benefit from cellaring for 6-8 years.
2011 SAVENNIERES ROCHE-AUX-MOINESProducer: Chateau Pierre Bise
Variety: Chenin Blanc
Vintage: 2011
Region: Loire Valley, France
ABV: 14%
Closure: Natural cork
Retail Price: $45.00
Date tasted: 27 October 2013
Tasting Note:
Bright golden yellow. With decanting, opens up to reveal notes of green apples, cider?!, pear, crushed rocks. Dry, medium bodied, savoury and ‘serious’, but not austere in any way. Fleshy and with good palate weight. Like licking wet stones, slightly fermented apples. Lovely stuff in its context.
Score: 17/20
No comments:
Post a Comment