"Silex" 2018

750ml

Overview

Domaine Didier Dagueneau’s "Silex" 2018 is a highly regarded Sauvignon Blanc from the Pouilly-Fumé region of the Loire Valley. Known for its exceptional terroir-driven wines, Didier Dagueneau has crafted "Silex" to be a pure expression of the region’s mineral-rich soils, especially the silex (flint) soil that imparts unique characteristics to the wine. This cuvée showcases the complexity and elegance for which Dagueneau is celebrated, with a focus on balance between freshness, minerality, and the wine’s characteristic smoky qualities.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The grapes for "Silex" are carefully handpicked from older vines planted in soils rich in flint, which are ideal for Sauvignon Blanc. After harvest, the grapes undergo a slow fermentation process in oak barrels, which allows the wine to develop its rich texture and complexity.
• Aging: The wine is aged on its lees for several months, which contributes to its roundness and mouthfeel. "Silex" also spends time in oak barrels, which imparts a subtle yet important layer of complexity, particularly with its smoky notes. This aging process allows the wine to integrate the flavors and develop its full potential.
• Bottling: Like many of Dagueneau’s wines, "Silex" is bottled without fining, allowing it to maintain its natural purity and the expression of its terroir.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: "Silex" has a brilliant pale gold color, with flashes of green that highlight its freshness and youthfulness.
• Aroma: The nose is incredibly expressive, offering notes of ripe citrus fruits, white peach, and a distinct minerality. The signature flinty and smoky aromas of the Pouilly-Fumé region are prominent, adding complexity to the fruit-forward notes. There are also subtle hints of fresh herbs and a slight floral character, which further elevate the wine’s aromatic profile.
• Palate: On the palate, "Silex" is powerful and structured, with a crisp acidity that gives the wine great freshness. The flavors echo the nose, with bright citrus and stone fruit flavors, layered with earthy, mineral-driven notes of wet stone and flint. The wine has a long, precise finish with lingering smoky notes, giving it depth and complexity. The oak influence is very subtle but adds a richness and texture to the wine.

Food Pairing

"Silex" pairs beautifully with seafood, especially oysters and grilled fish. It also complements goat cheese, such as Chèvre, and pairs well with roasted chicken, light pasta dishes with herbs, and vegetable terrines. The wine's crisp acidity and complex minerality make it an excellent choice with rich or buttery dishes, where it can cut through the richness and provide balance.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Serve at 10–12°C (50–54°F) to best appreciate the wine’s freshness and its full range of aromas.
• Decanting: No decanting is necessary, but allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes in the glass will enhance its aromas and allow it to fully open up.

Aging Potential

"Silex" 2018 has excellent aging potential and will continue to evolve beautifully over the next 10 to 15 years. With time, the wine will develop greater complexity and depth, while maintaining its fresh and mineral-driven character.