L'Arbre Blanc’s intriguing blend of Pinot Gris & Sauvignon Blanc from the iron-rich volcanic soils of the Auvergne. lifted aromatics of peaches and spice with a crackle of volcanic minerality, then such a pure palate, gripping tannic elements, dried fruits, quince and some creamy malolactic notes. Heavenly! Find out more.
About the Wine
Sauvignon Blanc from a tiny half hectare of vines, planted in 2010 on the typical iron-rich volcanic soils of the Auvergne. The grapes are direct pressed into 1000lt stoneware jars where they spend time on the lees. After many years of using old barrel, Frédéric and Caroline now favour aging in this more neutral vessel; stoneware jars allowing the minerality and freshness of the beautiful volcanic terroir to shine.
A rare gem which we're very happy to get a hold of.
About L'Arbre Blanc
The Gounan family has been in Saint Sandoux for generations. Fred's father had apple orchards as many people in the area once did. Sadly these orchards have now been replaced with the ubiquitous wheat and so have most of the vineyards. Fred and Caroline's two small plots of Pinot Noir stand alone on the basaltic western slope of the valley in whose trough runs the A75 opposite the hill of Corent (home of Patrick Bouju and François Dhumes). Off to the north Fred points out a patch of vines that his neighbour has left to run wild, next to that he shows us some Pinot Gris and Sauvignon that he planted in 2010. The two plots of Pinot Noir, one higher and one lower, are both planted en lyre, a system that enhances leaf and fruit exposure to the sun (much needed in the moderate climate of the Auvergne) and, as Fred assures, acts as a cosmic funnel. The funneling seems to work, Fred's vines are beautiful and the ground around them rich with other plant life - testament to his and Caroline's work.
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£48
