“Youthful pale straw colour with a bright hue. Pure and aromatic nose with cut grass, elderflower, lemongrass and stone fruit. Bright and crisp palate with good layers, exotic fruit yet bone dry with a lovely freshness good extract and a long lingering finish with a slight salty sensation” Andreas Larsson, Best Sommelier of the World 2007.

Domaine Huet L'Echansonne is the leading producer in the Vouvray region of the Loire Valley. It is known for its range of Chenin Blanc wines from that appellation, which are prized for their richness and concentration as well as their great ability to age.

R de Rieussec, Château Rieussec's dry white wine, is a blend of 59% Sauvignon Blanc and 41% Sémillon, with 20% fermented in barrels to enhance aging potential. It features a beautiful bouquet of citrus-tinged tropical fruits. On the palate, it is powerful and harmonious, showcasing flavors of citrus, mango, and papaya, complemented by energetic acidity and a textured mouthfeel. The finish is complex and refreshing. Perfectly paired with Asian dishes, spicy fried chicken, or mixed vegetables, this wine is a delightful choice for a variety of culinary experiences.

The Bougrier family have been growing and making wines in the Loire valley for six generations, with vineyard holdings throughout the length of the Loire Valley and its many appellations. Sourced from selected sites with clay over limestone on the Vouvray plateau, this is a classic Vouvray that demonstrates the aromatic complexity, breadth of fruit flavours, as well as the balance between subtle fruit sweetness and delicate acidity of Chenin Blanc from this region. Aromas of quince, green pears, and granny smith apples are found along with notes of jasmine. The palate opens up with an array of white stone fruits, fresh acidity, and a subtle, chalky and textural finish. A wine of great freshness, balance, and subtlety.

The dried-mango and pineapple character is so delicious in this wine. It’s full-bodied and medium-sweet, with a pretty density and a fruity finish. Wonderful balance to this super Sauternes. This is a little in reserve now, with so much for the future.

In 2013 only 2500 cases will be made (half the production of the last few abundant years and a fraction of the production of Ch. d’Yquem), but the final blend is not decided until early summer. Each barrel shows its individual character, but all had in common an energy, focus, persistence, depth and precision that makes this one of the wines of the vintage. The ethereal quality that I consider the hallmark of a great Climens was already noticeable as was an intense perfumed fragrance, which is the hallmark of the 2013 vintage. 2013 Climens is a jewel in the making and though its subtle elegance will make this approachable young, it has decades of ageing and evolving ahead.