2014 Montlouis-Sur-Loire Clos Michet, Domaine de la Taille aux Loups, Jacky Blot

2022 Bourgueil Pied de la Butte, Domaine de la Butte, Jacky Blot Dry | Red | Still | 13.5%

This is juicy, lightly peppery, bright and elegantly smooth Cabernet Franc which is wonderful in its youth. The fruit comes from the bottom part of the slope, hence 'Pied' - foot. This is in contrast to the mid-slope fruit goes into the age-worthy, denser 'Mi-Pente' cuvée. Some vines at the bottom are as old as 80 years, so although the wine is juicy, upfront, and invitingly drinkable, the finish is sustained and persistent with old vine intensity taking this above a simple easy-drinking wine. It’s got a wonderful sour cherry note, with lightly smoky notes.

Ready: 2025 - 2029

2022 Montlouis-Sur-Loire Rémus, Domaine de la Taille aux Loups, Jacky Blot Dry | White | Still | 12.5%

This is as good an introduction to Montlouis as you’ll find, and a top class example of great Chenin Blanc that shows well from early on. The charming nose shows crabapple blossom, followed by the tart bramley apple acidity typical of Chenin Blanc on the palate, along with a lightly phenolic grip. Rémus might be the domaine's entry level white but its quality is not to be underestimated. It’s simply made in a style that Jacky knew would drink well from youth, so don’t hesitate to pull the cork. Smoky, expressive, and precise. It is the final vintage that Jacky made before passing away in summer 2023.

Ready: 2024 - 2031

2021 Montlouis-sur-Loire Hauts de Husseau, Domaine de la Taille aux Loups, Jacky Blot Dry | White | Still | 12.5%

Some of the vines in this vineyard are over 100 years old, and the wine always has a thrilling concentration and precision. In this 2021 the fruit is chiselled, nicely tart, with a delicious fresh ripeness underneath - everything you want from Chenin Blanc. This was arguably the wine that persuaded me this is the best vintage from Jacky Blot I've ever tasted.

Ready: 2024 - 2034