J. de Villebois Pouilly-Fumé 2022 is an excellent example of Sauvignon Blanc from one of the Loire Valley’s most renowned appellations. This vintage offers a vivid expression of the grape, which is grown on a unique terroir characterised by flinty soils (“silex”) that impart a distinctive mineral edge to the wine. The 2022 harvest benefitted from favourable weather that allowed the grapes to reach optimal ripeness while preserving their lively acidity. Vinified with great care, the wine showcases fine clarity and purity, reflecting both the character of the vintage and the estate’s commitment to quality winemaking. Expect pronounced aromas of grapefruit, white peach, and elderflower, overlaid by the hallmark smoky, gunflint notes so characteristic of Pouilly-Fumé. The palate is fresh and crystalline, with citrus nuances and a lingering, mineral-driven finish.
The Centre-Loire vineyards, where Pouilly-Fumé is located, are shaped by the Loire River and protected from Atlantic influences, resulting in a semi-continental climate. Warm days are tempered by cool nights, ideal for maintaining acidity and aromatic intensity in Sauvignon Blanc. The region’s silex-rich soils not only lend the wine its classic mineral character but also contribute to its remarkable age-worthiness. While the Pouilly-Fumé appellation dates back to the 1930s in terms of official recognition, vine-growing here has ancient origins, and the long, rich tradition is evident in each bottle.
A wine of such elegance and verve pairs superbly with a variety of dishes. Enjoy it alongside fresh goat’s cheese, such as the classic Crottin de Chavignol, or with delicate white fish in a citrus or beurre blanc sauce. Shellfish, sushi, or a salad of fennel and citrus would also be excellent matches. If you wish to experience a regional pairing, try it with Loire river fish like pike-perch or a simple terrine de poisson.
For the best tasting experience, serve this Pouilly-Fumé well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. A universal white wine glass will allow the expressive aromatics to shine. This vintage can be enjoyed in its vibrant youth but will also reward a couple of years in the cellar if you prefer more evolved mineral complexity.
