Vouvray Brut Reserve 2005

750ml

Overview

The Foreau Vouvray Brut Réserve 2005 is an exceptional sparkling Chenin Blanc from Domaine Philippe Foreau, a revered estate in the Loire Valley’s Vouvray appellation. Known for its meticulous craftsmanship and commitment to tradition, Foreau produces some of the finest sparkling wines in the region. This vintage Brut Réserve, made using the méthode traditionnelle, showcases the remarkable aging potential and complexity that Vouvray’s terroir can impart.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The base wine undergoes fermentation in stainless steel and old oak barrels to retain freshness and enhance depth.
• Maceration: No extended maceration, ensuring purity and precision in flavor.
• Aging: Aged on fine lees in bottle for an extended period, exceeding the standard requirements for Vouvray Brut, allowing for enhanced complexity and texture. Disgorgement occurs after many years, preserving its vibrant acidity and adding toasty, autolytic notes.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: A radiant golden hue with fine, persistent bubbles.
• Aroma: The nose is layered with notes of baked apple, quince, honey, and citrus zest, interwoven with brioche, toasted almond, and a distinct mineral character. Hints of chamomile and dried white flowers add further complexity.
• Palate: Rich yet precise, with a creamy mousse that complements the wine’s crisp acidity. Flavors of ripe pear, apricot, and lemon curd unfold, alongside subtle oxidative nuances of hazelnut and fresh pastry. The minerality, characteristic of Vouvray’s tuffeau limestone soils, gives the wine remarkable depth and elegance.
• Finish: Exceptionally long and refined, leaving a lingering impression of citrus zest, crushed stone, and delicate toasty notes.

Food Pairing

This Vouvray Brut Réserve 2005 pairs beautifully with a range of dishes, including oysters, smoked salmon, lobster, and creamy cheeses like Comté and aged goat cheese. It also complements roast poultry, foie gras, and dishes with subtle nutty or truffle elements, enhancing the wine’s complexity.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: 10-12°C (50-54°F) to showcase both its freshness and richness.
• Glassware: A Champagne flute or a white wine glass with a slightly wider bowl to enhance the wine’s aromatic expression.

Aging Potential

Already aged to perfection, this 2005 vintage still has the potential to evolve gracefully for another 5-10 years, gaining further nutty and honeyed complexity while maintaining its refined structure.