Viniou Reviews
Wine and Region Description:
This 1996 Pouilly-Fumé from the Loire Valley, produced by Château du Nozet, is a unique and intriguing entry. The region's renowned terroir, with its flint and limestone-rich soils, imparts a characteristic minerality to its wines. Although traditionally known for its white wines, especially Sauvignon Blanc, the anomaly here is its mention as "Rouge", suggesting either a potential input error or a fascinating experimental cuvée. The Loire's cool climate generally ensures a lively acidity, even in older vintages, which will be an interesting trait of this wine. Château du Nozet has a storied reputation for producing elegant and expressive wines. The 1996 vintage, with its history of challenging weather conditions, will offer a complex profile worth exploring.
Food Pairing Suggestions:
To complement the wine's potential minerality and depth, consider pairing with dishes such as roasted poultry with herbal seasoning or a rich mushroom risotto. If this is indeed a unique red from the region, lighter game dishes or even a classic French charcuterie board would enhance its subtle complexities. Regional dishes like Loire goat cheese can provide a harmonious match, bringing out the wine's nuanced flavours.
Tasting Advice:
Serve this wine at a temperature of around 16-18°C (60-64°F) to best appreciate its aromatic profile and underlying subtleties. Decanting is recommended for approximately 30 minutes to an hour to allow any initial sediment to settle and to let the wine breathe, potentially revealing deeper layers. Begin the tasting by observing the wine's colour and clarity, followed by a gentle swirl to release its bouquet. Inhale its aromas deeply, noting any earthy or mineral notes, before tasting to explore its full palate profile, from initial mouthfeel to its lingering finish.
