BIN905
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Clos Naudin
Foreau
Philippe Foreau, third generation of the Foreau family to produce Vouvray, assumed the direction of the domaine since 1983 upon the retirement of his father, Andre. Today the domaine consists of 11 1/2 hectares planted with Chenin Blanc. The vineyards are located in the northeast corner of Vouvray in the Loire Valley, sited mid-hill with 100% south/southeast/southwest exposures. The principal vineyards are known as “Les Perruches” and “Les Ruettes”.
The average age of the vines is approximately 35 years. Yields over the past 10 years have averaged 33 hectoliters per hectare. The vineyards are tended pursuant to organic methods - without the use of herbicides and worked with organic fertilizers.
Production levels are approximately 30,000 bottles per annum of still wine and 25,000 bottles annually of sparkling wine made following the traditional “champagne” method.
Available today:
Foreau Vouvray Sec 2006 $36 Despite being a bone dry white, the wine displays fruity aromas dominated by honey notes, bruised apples, and grape. Chenin shines there, slight mushroom / earth aromas underline its fruit profile.
Foreau Vouvary Demi Sec 2005 $49 Rich for a demi-sec, with layers of mango and papaya driven by notes of ginger, cardamom and bergamot. Hangs together, thanks to deft acidity that keeps the sweet and dry aspects balanced.
Foreau Vouvray Moelleux 1995 $75 Opulent aromas of dried peach and hazelnut give way to full bodied flavors or ripe fruit, toast and spice in this voluptuous wine. Has enough acidity to stay lively.
Foreau Vouvray Moelleux Reserve 2003 $105 Jaw dropping fruit-Guava, quince, mango and persimmon is extremely concentrated and lushly layered. That’s followed by ginger, cream, green almond and smoke notes on a super long finish, which has a nice bit of earthy grip as well.
Region: Loire Valley, France
