Do you remember that scene in American Gangster with the naked women in the factory? We were trying to imagine a similar set up in the Loire valley, involving grape juice and some seriously heavy equipment. It all sounded rather unsafe and slightly chilly so we were pleased to discover that the nue (or 'naked') philosophy in fact refers to the absence of oak in this wine. This is a welcome departure by winemaker Jean-Louis from the oak-obsession we see too much in Reuilly. The resulting wine is cleaner, fruitier and more exciting than even the most splendid of birthday suits.
The appellation of Reuilly produces far less dramatic wines than its more illustrious neighbours, Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé. What you get from a vineyard in Reuilly is fruit with real clarity, purity and delicacy and that's what Jean-Louis tries to express in his wines. So whilst others pursue the black arts of manipulation - the cheif ingredient being oak - Jean Louis eschews such practices; as he says, Sauvignon Blanc is best enjoyed naked.
Established in 1935 on a 2ha plot in the appellation of Reuilly in the Eastern Loire region, the estate now in third generation of family ownership has grown to a still modest 17ha.
View Larger Map
