Domaine de l'Ecu Melon B.
- Producer: Domaine de l'Ecu
- Region: Muscadet, Loire Valley
- Varieties: 100% Melon de Bourgogne (aka Muscadet)
- Alcohol: 12%
Domaine de l'Ecu, an avant-garde winery now under the reigns of winemaker Fred Niger, emphasizes the fundamental role of the vineyard in crafting exceptional wines. Since 1975, they've maintained organic certification and embraced biodynamics since 1998, with Demeter certification in place. Rejecting technological artifices in winemaking, they focus on terroir and vintage authenticity, refusing yeasting, enzymage, and other standardizing processes. Sulfur use is minimal, adhering to levels far below authorized thresholds. They're proudly associated with Biodynamic winegrower groups advocating terroir respect. Their wines grace renowned global tables, from Noma to Le Bernardin. Avoiding supermarkets, their wines reach discerning consumers through passionate wine merchants, completing their philosophy. This Muscadet is clean and pure with a pronounced minerality that can be reminiscent of oyster shells, sea breeze, or wet stones. There's a distinct salinity that adds to the wine's overall freshness, making it an excellent choice for seafood pairings! The finish is crisp and dry, leaving you wanting more! Pair with lighter dishes like salads, white fish, and sushi. The wine's high acidity can cut through rich and creamy sauces, making it suitable for dishes like chicken in a creamy lemon sauce!
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Luigi Baudana Langhe Bianco
- Producer: Luigi Baudana (Famiglia di G.D. Vajra)
- Region: Piedmont, Italy
- Varieties: Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc
- Alcohol: 14%
Baudana, a family-owned estate in Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo, became part of the Vajra family in 2008. The Vajras, including Giuseppe, Francesca, and Isidoro Vajra, the children of Aldo and Milena Vajra, have managed it as a distinct property. The estate underwent significant changes in the winemaking approach, with a stricter selection process for single-vineyard Barolos. The creation of a new Barolo called Serralunga now accounts for a significant portion of the estate's production. This transformation has elevated Baudana's quality, reflecting a more disciplined approach to barrel selection and a renewed focus on vineyard care and winemaking. The future holds promise for this reinvigorated winery.
Dragon is an exceptional white blend hailing from Langhe. Originally crafted by Luigi Baudana in the 1980s using Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, it has since evolved to include the heirloom Nascetta grape and a small touch of Riesling. This unique wine embodies two dreams: preserving Luigi Baudana's vineyard legacy and offering a white wine that's simultaneously easygoing and fun, yet underpinned by genuine complexity.
Situated on the northeast slope of the renowned Cerretta Piani terroir in Barolo, this Chardonnay vineyard (with a hint of Sauvignon) benefits from a cooler microclimate, ideal for white grapes. The mature vines yield captivating wines with notes of stony minerals, wild blossoms, and fresh summer grass. Aged on its lees in stainless steel vats, the wine retains its refreshing acidity while presenting a velvety, almost buttery texture. Dragon is a truly distinctive and elegant wine. It pairs wonderfully with dishes featuring lemongrass, basil, or cilantro. The finish is crisp and concise, leaving you with a smile.
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Domaine Bonnet Huteau Tougri White Wine
- Producer: Domaine Bonnet Huteau
- Region: Sèvre et Maine, Muscadet, France
- Varieties: Sauvignon Gris, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay
- Alcohol: 12.5%
Domaine Bonnet Huteau, located in the western part of the Loire Valley, boasts a 40-hectare vineyard that is meticulously cultivated and treated through biodynamic practices. Within the Muscadet appellation, winemakers Jean-Jacques and Rémi craft wines that showcase the beauty of the often underestimated Melon de Bourgogne grape, renowned for its freshness.
In addition to the Melon de Bourgogne, the domain also cultivates historical grape varieties native to the region, including Folle Blanche. Jean-Marc’s dedication to winemaking is evident as he refrains from adding sulfites to the wine, allowing the grapes to fully express their potential and character.
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Pojer e Sandri Müller-Thurgau
- Producer: Pojer e Sandri
- Region: Trentino, Italy
- Varieties: Müller-Thurgau
- Alcohol: 12%
Pojer e Sandri is a charming winery that started in 1975 by two best friends Mario Pojer and Fiorentino Sandri, a lot of courage and a dream! Their wines are small batch, made with native grape varieties, and a lot of love. This white wine is one of our favorite! The bouquet is intensely aromatic with hints of peach and citrusy notes of lemon. It’s delicate and fresh! Subtle hints of pear and apricot. Serve chilled and pair with creamed cauliflower, roasted potatoes or green bean salad!