DOMAINE DES GRANDES ESPERANCES AURORE TOURAINE 2020 750ml

A PRECIOUS WINE

Domaine des Grandes Espérances, located in Mesland, Loire Valley, France, is a family-run estate founded in 1998, dedicated to organic viticulture since 2011. Spanning 30 hectares, the winery cultivates Chenin Blanc and other local varieties on flinty clay soils, emphasizing sustainability and terroir expression. Under winemaker Laurent Trottier, the estate employs meticulous hand-harvesting and minimal-intervention techniques to craft vibrant, authentic wines. Known for its innovative cuvées, Domaine des Grandes Espérances blends tradition with creativity, producing wines like Aurore that reflect the Loire’s mineral-driven character. The estate’s commitment to quality has earned it recognition for its elegant, terroir-focused offerings.
The 2020 Domaine des Grandes Espérances Aurore Touraine is a 100% Chenin Blanc from a single vineyard plot on flinty clay soils. Hand-harvested in early October, grapes undergo a 12-hour skin maceration to enhance aromas, followed by fermentation and 18 months of aging in oak barrels (one-third new). Bottled unfiltered, it has a 13.5% alcohol content and minimal sulfites. Certified organic, the wine reflects the 2020 vintage’s balanced conditions, with cool nights preserving acidity. The flinty terroir imparts minerality, while barrel aging adds structure and depth, creating a complex, age-worthy white wine.

TASTING NOTE:

The 2020 Aurore Touraine presents a pale gold hue, with an expressive nose of white peach, jasmine, and coconut, underpinned by subtle flinty minerality. On the palate, it’s smooth and full-bodied, offering ripe pear, citrus zest, and a touch of vanilla from oak aging. A vibrant mineral tautness balances its richness, leading to a crisp, lingering finish. Best served at 10-12°C, it pairs beautifully with seafood, white meats, or creamy cheeses. Drink now or cellar for enhanced complexity, as its structure and acidity evolve gracefully over time.