2014 VDF 'Rive Droite'

Reynald Héaulé

Regular price $55 750ml Sale

100% Organic Chardonnay from the Right bank, where the vineyards are clay and limestone. Direct press, debourbage, then élevage for 30 months in old demi-muid.

Quite golden in colour. Wow. Every time I smell this I am reminded of aged Overnoy. From the fridge and at first pour it is a bit tight – but again, just wait. As with all of Reynald’s wines, you can watch this change over days. Very subtle notes of grains, nuts and honey, rather than fruit. Maybe some dried or preserved fruits. Gentle oxidation which has made everything go deep and mellowed – not intense in anyway, just subtle. This wine pulls you in and makes you sniff deep. To taste there is gentle acidity, mineral core, and it has a very soft touch. Not flamboyant, this is relatively linear with gentle texture, and seems quite slippery on the palate. I love the balance between the depth and restraint on the nose. Bone dry, mouthwatering acidity, fine delivery, and gives a relaxing sensation. I always see this as an elixir – it’s very unique and different to your ordinary Chardonnay. Harmonious balance and very drinkable. As it awakes from its sleep, it becomes quite bright too. Squeaky clean, lifted, light and seamless. So much limestone and silex influence on the back palate which lingers for minutes after you put the glass down.

Loire Valley
2014
Chardonnay
VDF
2014 Rive Droite 'Clos Belle-Croix'