Janeil Gros Manseng Sauvignon Blanc 2018

We know 'Gros Manseng' isn't the nicest name for a grape. In fact it sounds like an unflattering description of a singer. But forget all that: its cleansing acidity and flavours of quince and white blossom make it a top companion for Sauvignon Blanc and more than compensates for its unfortunate moniker.

Mas Janeil was founded in 1996 by Francois Lurton of Bordeaux. Always on the lookout for exceptional and expressive terroirs, Francois saw the potential of the Maury region in the Côtes du Roussillon in the far South West of France – the warm and sunny region better known for the production of sweet fortified red wines.

The grapes for this wine come from a long-standing partner domaine situated in a cooler part of the Gers region. Here the cooling influence of the Atlantic is more apparent, giving wines with higher natural acidity and freshness.

Gros Manseng is grown widely in the southwest France. It is a late-ripening variety with small berries that produce wine with a deep yellow robe, ample acidity and great structure. Janeil have expertly handled it here, bringing out its latent characteristics of grapefruit, mango and bright floral notes which combine nicely with the lemon freshness of the Sauvignon.