Gratien & Meyer, The Wine Society's Generation Series Crémant de Loire, France 2020

A nod to the rich, Chenin Blanc-based ‘Sparkling Saumurs’ listed by The Wine Society in its first decades, this Crémant de Loire is based on the region’s flagship white variety (54% of the blend) and produced with fruit from Gratien & Meyer’s own vineyards in Saumur. Expressive nose, with intense zestiness, fresh minerality and red fruit nuances. A subtle butteriness hints at the 30 months spent on the lees. On the palate, fleshy quince, pear and pink grapefruit are supported by a firm acid line. Sharp focus offset by mid-palate weight and textural depth. A balanced wine, of approachable complexity, with some potential to age in bottle.