A super example of properly made Sauvignon - Ripe and concentrated gooseberry fruit with hints of citrus and a tangy herbaceous edge. Steely, dry and elegant with a typical hint of gunflint. A super example of properly made Sauvignon. The beautiful label represents ammonite fossil shells found in Gilles vineyard, sketched by an artistic wine lover following a tasting, to represent what he visualised on savouring this wonderful wine.Domaine de Maltaverne are one of the few producers in the Loire that allows full malolactic fermentation to run it's natural course. Owner, Gilles Maudry believes that as long as his vineyards produce healthy grapes, picked at optimum maturity and vinified with care then the wine can be left to decide its own evolution. The beautiful label of this estate represents the ammonite fossil shells found in the vineyard, sketched by an artistic wine lover following a tasting, to represent what he visualised on savouring this wonderful wine.In the VineyardThe vineyards are planted on kimmeridgian soil (fossilised clay-chalk - superb for low yields and mineral content) facing south-southwest (giving increased exposure) and are fertilised organically. Harvesting is done by hand and/or machine, depending on the vintage.In the WineryVinification is old fashioned and 'hands off'. Fermentation is done by indigenous yeasts only followed by naturally occurring malolactic, which helps soften the wines by converting the harsher acids to more palatable ones. Winemaker Gilles Maudry believes in allowing the full malolactic fermentation to run its natural course. This allows fine lees to stay in contact with the wine for 15 months after harvest, enriching the flavours with more intensity and incredible freshness. Press QuotesWINE Magazine tasting - awarded top wine with 92/100 points. 'Lemon zest on the nose and the palate. Ripe guava, good acidity, elegant, unusual palate. Smoky, ripe, multi-layered"