Michel Thomas >
Loire >
France|
Michel Thomas and his son Laurent took over the estate in 1970 from Michel's father, who started in 1946. Today they farm 40 parcels located in four villages, which amounts to 17 hectares (42 acres): 11 hectares Sauvignon, 6 hectares Pinot Noir. They grow grapes on three soil types: 40% Terre Blanche-Argilo-Calcaire, 40% Caillottes-calcaire, 20% Le Roc-Silex.
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| Sancerre Rose |
The Sancerre appellation offers a rosé which is unique in France, of 100% Pinot Noir grapes.
It achieves its balance by being cultivated on two parcels of complementary character: "Les Caillottes," limestone and pebble, confers finesse and fruitiness, while "Les Terres Blanches," composed of clay-limestone, yields wines with power and backbone.
The grapes from these 55 year-old vines are machine-picked to catch the optimum ripeness level. After a 12 to 24 hour maceration
one half are pressed and the other half bled from the tank (saignee).
Vinification takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks in order to preserve fruitiness.
An intoxicating noseful of orange, apricot and grapefruit is followed by richness on the palate
of the same fruit spectrum.
This rare rosé marries beautifully with charcuterie, grilled meats and fruit-based desserts.
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| Sancerre Blanc - La Chaume |
This wine is a selected blend of 40% Caillottes, 40% Grosses Terres and 20% Silex which displays an exotic nose with a touch of smoke and liquorice. The classic cuvée "LA CHAUME" is grown on a high percentage of clay-limestone.
On the palate, peach and watermelon dominate with citrus zest and chalk notes.
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| Sancerre Blanc - Silex |
100% Sauvignon Blanc
Michel Thomas' special cuvée "SILEX" was created in honor of his grandfather. His objective was to make a Sancerre "à l'ancienne" , the old fashioned way.
Grapes from 60 year old vines planted on 100% flint sub-soil are late-harvested.
After vinification the wine are raised on fine lies for one year. This cuvée is unfiltered and does not undergo any tartric precipitation, thereby preserving a maximum of aromas. Although there may be some slight deposit and cloudiness, this is rather a gage of great quality.
This is a Sancerre that seeks the fullest expression of its terroir: richness allied to stunning minerality.
Tasting Notes: Intensely aromatic and concentrated Sauvignon from the Silex soils, this is a wine of great concentration and excellent balance. Aromas of fresh herbs, with flavors of citrus, ripe gooseberry, apple and a hint of gunflint.
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