Domaine Philippe Gilbert Hors-Sujet 2022
Domaine Philippe Gilbert is one of the top producers in Menetou-Salon, a lesser-known AOC that borders Sancerre. While obscure in comparison to its neighbor, Menetou-Salon has great terroirs; Gilbert's fantastic wines – some of the region's very best – are proof.
The domaine is equally adept at producing both mineral, fine-boned whites (Sauvignon Blanc) and silky, noble reds (Pinot Noir), both of which impress even at the entry-level domaine bottlings
Grape Varietals & Region: 100% Sauvignon Blanc from parcels within the Menetou-Salon
Taste Profile: A nose that reminds of wheat beers. The nose is quite discreet on the freshly squeezed grapefruit complemented by some spices. After a good aeration, the nose changes completely: we are on the delicate rose. The mouth is round, fresh, pulpy, with a material of an impressive density - everything remains gourmet and digestible - toned by a fine trickle of carbon dioxide. The finish is very fresh and chewy, on the granny apple and grapefruit, with a persistence on chalky and lemony notes
Winemaking Process: Pellicular maceration of sauvignon, this wine was vinified in 500-liter earthenware jars for eight months. The grapes were harvested, destemmed and macerated on sandstone, then the entire harvest on terra cotta. These 1,200 bottles have no other vocation than to express the sauvignon in a different way. Off-topic (hors-sujet in French) assumed.
