2016 Domaine du Clos des Rocs (Olivier Giroux) Pouilly-Loché Clos des Rocs Monopole 1.5L

“The 2016 Pouilly-Loché Clos des Rocs (Monopole) is more sun-kissed in profile than the neighboring Les Mures, exhibiting notes of birch, dried white flowers, honeycomb and golden orchard fruit. On the palate, it’s full-bodied, ample and complete, with succulent acids, good concentration and a long, pure finish. This is a lovely wine that’s generous but controlled.”

The young and ambitious Olivier Giroux purchased the Domaine du Clos des Rocs in 2002, an 8.8-hectare estate that includes over six hectares within the small but complex 32-hectare appellation of Pouilly-Loché. Organic conversion began in 2006. Manual harvest is followed by lengthy pressing and élevage in tank, demi-muid and barrel, with minimal percentages of new oak. The wines are pure, limpid and fleshy, with succulent balancing acids. Giroux contends that the character of Pouilly-Loché approaches most closely the wines of Chaintré that are entitled to the Pouilly-Fuissé AOC, a persuasive argument. This is an excellent address that comes highly recommended. What’s more, it will be exciting to follow Giroux’s progress over the years to come.”