Saphir 2016
Trade Tools
France / Loire Valley
Bouvet Ladubay selects grapes from Saumur’s renowned AOC vineyards, whose white limestone subsoil is ideal for the cultivation of Chenin Blanc with a classic minerality and crispness. The mild climate coupled with the excellent drainage of the clay creates the natural acidity needed to produce a balanced sparkling white wine. The grapes are pressed in the vineyards and the juice is delivered directly to the cellars. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel, then the finest wines from each lot are blended and the cuvée is bottled for the second fermentation, following the traditional method.
Harvest Note
During the 2016 growing season, the vines of the Loire Valley were severely tested. Frost at the end of April was followed by very high humidity in May and June. Drought conditions characterized the summer months of July and August. The result was a harvest with very low yields across the appellation. September rainfall helped to bring about a positive end to the growing season however, with very healthy grapes and overall, a harvest of good quality.
Tasting Note
This wine is pale gold in color with amber tints and crystal-clear fine bubbles. This prestigious cuvée is full-bodied with long-lasting aromas. It offers aromas and flavors of white flowers, peach, acacia, honey and hazelnut. Enjoy this fresh and well balanced wine.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 85% Chenin Blanc, 15% Chardonnay
APPELLATION: Saumur
ACIDITY: 5.5 g/l
ABV: 12.5%
DOSAGE: 10 g/l
AGING: 18 months in stainless steel
Unique Selling Points
- One of the first wines to earn an AOC
- Made using the Méthode Traditionnelle
- Each vintage cap shows a different piece of art from an artist featured at the Bouvet Ladubay Contemporary Art Center
For Bouvet Ladubay, the creation of sparkling wine is an art form that is complemented by the art exhibits hosted at the winery.
About the Grape
Chenin Blanc
Depending on the soils, Chenin Blanc can be lush, with stone fruit and pear characters; or quite dry, with green apple and beeswax notes.
