Ladoucette Baron de L 2023

Baron de L is the top bottling from De Ladoucette in AOC Pouilly-Fume in the Loire, made entirely from Sauvignon Blanc. The Counts of Lafond have held the largest vineyards in Pouilly-Fume since the late 18th century, and Baron Patrick de Ladoucette continues that line. The vines grow on clay soils in a cool continental climate, and Pouilly-Fume is known for the smoky, flinty note that the local flint and limestone give Sauvignon Blanc. The wine is made only from the must of a first, gentle pressing, then aged on its lees, which adds texture and roundness while the fruit and mineral edge stay clear. The colour is pale straw with green tints. The nose is fresh and expressive, with citrus peel, green apple and white flowers over a smoky, flinty mineral note. The palate is dry and crisp, with lemon and pear and a saline, stony finish carried by firm acidity. This is a Sauvignon Blanc built for freshness and precision rather than oak. Serve well chilled at 8 to 10C in a tall glass. It suits shellfish, white fish and goat cheese.