2015 Domaine de L’Ecu, Vin de France Rouge “Ange” Loire Valley, France.
From the cool Atlantic influenced Muscadet region of the Loire Valley, the beautiful Ange from Domaine de L’Ecu is an intriguing wine with an ancient tradition flare with gorgeous texture, length, stylish and delicately nuanced fruit. Crafted from 100% Pinot Noir, all biodynamic, native yeast fermented and raised in amphora the Ange by Domaine de L’Ecu is one of the most unique expressions of this varietal I’ve tasted and loved! This all natural, pure and direct Pinot Noir is wonderfully graceful and stunning in fine detail with lovely strawberry, plum, red berry and dark cherry fruits on the light to medium weight palate with vibrant brightness, rich mouth feel and interesting savory elements and spice with chalky/stony earthiness and a hint of earth. The first impression is of spring roses, wilted petals, warm roof terra-cotta tiles as well as mineral tones and raw cinnamon on the nose and entry, before giving way to the mentioned array of silky flavors and velvety tannin. At 12% and from an ultra cool climate, this is an energy filled Pinot Noir that shows loads of character, finesse and charm, I must admit to be utterly seduced by this elegant expression of grape and place, it really is a new spin on Pinot Noir and it’s lingering red currant, lavender spice and subtle loaminess is captivating! Domaine de L’Ecu is most known for their terroir driven plots of old vine Melon and wonderful soil marked Muscadets, but they have been exploring Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir in amphora in recent years with longer skin contact with impressive results, this is a winery to watch, and this vintage 2015 looks set to really up their game to the next level, this is amazing stuff!
($45 Est.) 94 Points, grapelive
