J. de Villebois, Pouilly-Fumé 2023

Pouilly-Fumé is the Sauvignon Blanc appellation located on the Right Bank of the Loire River. The appellation was created in 1937 originally as Blanc Fumé de Pouilly. PouillyFumé takes its name from Pouilly-sur-Loire, the village from which the wines originate; while 'Fume' refers to Blanc Fumé, the local synonym for Sauvignon Blanc. Fumé translates as 'smoky', which denotes the struck gunflint notes that characterise the wines. Located slightly overlooking the Loire, the vineyard benefits from intense light and mild temperatures. The vineyard is cultivated without the addition of synthetic products
in order to preserve the microbiology of the soils and the development of the vines. Yields are controlled due to the diversity in the age of the plantations and the origin of
the vines.

The grapes were gently pressed in a pneumatic press immediately after being picked to minimize skin contact. The juice was traditionally fermented with selected yeasts in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. Fermentation lasted for seven to 15 days, followed by maturation in stainless steel tanks for a minimum of six months, on its fine lees to impart volume and texture. Bottling took place during the spring following the
harvest.

This family-owned winery is the venture of Joost and Miguela de Willebois, who are descendants from an old French family, established in the Netherlands since the 19th century (where the V became a W). Passionate about French culture and the Loire Valley, Joost and Miguela settled in Touraine in 1996, after being enchanted by Loire Sauvignon Blanc. They cultivate a range of terroirs across appellations within the Loire Valley, combining modern techniques, innovation and experimentation, with respect
for the soils and the terroir. They fully believe that by being as close to nature as possible, they can capture the soul of the land. Patrice Merceron, winemaker and agricultural engineer, joined in 2014 and guides a team of dedicated winegrowers and winemakers to produce stunning Sauvignon Blanc wines, which reflect the nuances of
the Loire Valley.