Many years ago I discovered the sublime joy of wines from Montlouis sur Loire. Unfortunately, KT didn't share my enthusiasm so the few that I purchased have languished in peaceful abandon in the basement. Recently I thought that I should open a 2000 Francois Chidaine to see how it was holding up. It was very good, albeit slightly turned with oxidation. Warning heeded! All the rest of the Montlouis now reside in a wine cooler, to be consumed soon.
Tonight La Taille Aux Loups, 2003, Sec Les Dix Arpents, graced the table and was breathtakingly delicious. It was so good that even Ms. KT didn't blink when I poured it with the evening's fair: halibut with a southern Italian green sauce. A glass or two prior to dinner revealed such amazing flavors: bracing acidity, taut apricot - that green apricot acidity, mocha and tart stone fruit - thinking peach, nectarine.
What a joy! I've a mind lately to taste through as much of the Loire as I can find and afford. I want to know the distinctions between Baudry's bottlings; I want to know that various ways the Montlouis can ride the razor's edge; I want to understand the variations of sauvignon blanc from Sancerre to its lesser vaunted neighbors like menetou.
So many amazing wines run through these lips. I am so thankful at my good fortune and the opportunity to indulge in this simple pleasure.
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