Domaine Fournier 'Les Deux Cailloux' Pouilly-Fumé 2022

Domaine Fournier, based in the Loire Valley, is a respected family-run estate known for its high-quality Sauvignon Blancs from Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. The Domaine Fournier 'Les Deux Cailloux' Pouilly-Fumé 2022 represents the essence of Pouilly-Fumé, where the vineyards benefit from a unique combination of limestone and flint soils. These "two stones" give the wine its distinctive smoky, mineral character, which Pouilly-Fumé is famous for. The 2022 vintage showcases the domaine's commitment to terroir-driven wines, offering a crisp, vibrant expression of Sauvignon Blanc.

The flint (silex) soils in Pouilly-Fumé contribute to the characteristic smoky or “gunflint” aroma, while the limestone helps retain the freshness and bright acidity of the grape. Domaine Fournier uses sustainable viticulture practices and minimal intervention in the cellar to preserve the purity of the fruit and the expression of the terroir.

Appearance: Pale straw with greenish reflections, showing brilliant clarity and freshness in the glass.

Aroma: The nose opens with vibrant aromas of citrus, grapefruit and lime, alongside green apple and gooseberry. There are subtle notes of flint and wet stone, adding a smoky, mineral complexity that is signature to Pouilly-Fumé.

Taste: The palate is crisp and precise, dominated by fresh citrus flavours of lemon and grapefruit, with hints of green apple and white peach. The wine’s distinctive flinty minerality is balanced by refreshing acidity, giving it a clean, structured mouthfeel.

Finish: The finish is long and refreshing, with lingering citrus, mineral, and smoky notes, leaving a vibrant and crisp impression.

Food pairing: This Pouilly-Fumé pairs beautifully with fresh goat’s cheese, where the wine’s acidity and minerality balance the creaminess of the cheese. It is also excellent with grilled seafood, such as sea bass or prawns, where the citrusy freshness and smoky undertones enhance the delicate flavours of the fish.