DOMAINE DES GRANDES ESPERANCES LE ROI SOLEIL 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 Le Roi Soleil Touraine is 100% Sauvignon Blanc from 30-year-old vines on flinty clay-loam soils. Hand-harvested in late September, grapes undergo a 12-hour skin maceration and cold stabilization to enhance aromas. Fermentation occurs in second-use oak barrels, followed by 10 months of aging on fine lees with periodic stirring for texture. Bottled with minimal sulfites, it has 12.5% alcohol and is certified organic (FR-BIO-01). The 2020 vintage’s balanced climate yields concentrated fruit and crisp acidity, showcasing the terroir’s mineral complexity.

TASTING NOTE:

The 2020 Le Roi Soleil Touraine glows with a pale golden hue, offering an aromatic bouquet of passion fruit, grapefruit, and white flowers, with subtle flinty and vanilla notes. The palate is vibrant yet creamy, blending citrus, peach, and tropical fruit with a mineral core. Its bright acidity and smooth, lingering finish provide elegance and balance. Serve at 10-12°C with seafood, goat cheese, or vegetable dishes. Drink now or cellar for added complexity. This Sauvignon Blanc’s finesse and minerality make it a standout Loire expression.