Loic Cailbourdin Nanogyra Pouilly Fume Loire 2022  £24.73

Domaine Pierre Marchand Pouilly Fume Loire

Alain runs the Domaine with his son Loïc, who is now fully in charge of the vineyards which comprise 20 hectares. From the 2016 vintage they are certified Terra Vitis which has the intention to produce high quality grapes which express the terroir and the know-how of wine growers in ecologically healthier ways with a view to preserving the environment and human health.

They have changed the name from “Les Cornets” to “Nanogyra” after the shellfish found in the heavier, Kimmeridgian marl soils around Pouilly-sur-Loire, which makes a fleshy style of Pouilly Fumé.

Born on the limestone-clay slopes of Pouilly (composed of Kimmeridgian marl), these wines get their power from the terroir. A little slower to open than wines from limestone slopes, they obtain their full expression after a year of ageing. We discover aromas of white flowers (hawthorn, acacia flower), followed by nuances (according to the vintage) of blackcurrant buds, pineapples or white peaches finishing on clean mineral notes sometimes described as "gun flint". After a few years, the aromas often evolve toward quince or mango. Some vintages have developed aromas of mushrooms, such as the 1996 which had a delightful truffle bouquet. On the palate, the expression is virile, powerful and long. This is a Pouilly-Fumé for those who appreciate full, rich wines.