Andrew Jefford: Full, pale, bright gold in color. Distinctively varietal but with some emphasis on the faintly sweaty, oniony side of the Sauvignon character. This clears after a while to give a sense of freshness (classic thiols). On the palate, this is light, fresh, graceful—rather more mineral than fruity; moderately concentrated, with fresh natural acidity and a delicately nettly finish. Not a show-stopper, but perfect with food: a discreet, responsive food partner. It would need a more refined aromatic profile for a high score, but there is lots to enjoy14.5
Andreas Larsson: A bit closed on the nose: some discreet notes of citrus peel, elderflower, and fresh grapes. The palate has some weight to it, some creamy notes, and a balanced acidity; youthful, with zesty fruit and a fair length13
Stephan Reinhardt: White/golden color. Fresh and just ripe on the nose; clear and straight; quite discreet. Round and aromatic on the palate, creamy, rich, and well balanced, with a slight crisp acidity. This is no Sauvignon to drink for fun but should be delicious with food. Serious. Complex and salty on the palate. Gets more complex with air contact. I would pour it into a decanter for an hour or so. Well-balanced and powerful wine. Retaste! 15
Details
Wine expert | Andrew Jefford Andreas Larsson Stephan Reinhardt |
Tastings year | 2012 |
Region | Loire |
Domaine Philippe Gilbert

