Domaine des Baumard - Cuvée Le Paon, Côteaux du Layon

Cuvée Le Paon, Côteaux du Layon

The sweet wines of Domaine des Baumard are from vineyards planted along the Layon river, which flows northwest into the Loire.  The perfectly exposed vineyards in the appellation Côteaux du Layon allow the Chenin Blanc grape to ripen perfectly, often enriched by the development of botryitis.  For the production of sweet wine, Florent Baumard prefers to harvest as late as the vintage weather permits, hoping for plenty of botryitis.  The grapes are harvested in successive passes or ‘tries’ through the vineyard, and any unsatisfactory fruit is eliminated.  The grapes are pressed quickly and the must fermented under temperature control.  Aging is done strictly without oak to preserve the elements of fruit and terroir.
 
The cuvée “Le Paon” is a manually done selection of grapes from the oldest vines of Baumard's Vineyard in the Coteaux du Layon AOC. Only the over-ripe or botrytised grapes are hand-picked for this cuvée, a selection that is possible only if the vintage deserves it. Therefore, this cuvée is not released every year.  The grapes are then pressed using a pneumatic press. Separation of juices is carefully monitored and controlled, as are fermentation temperatures, in stainless steel vats.

  • 2004 Vintage

    • "Representing a selection from their oldest vines that is not essayed every year, the Baumard 2004 Coteaux du Layon Cuvee Le Paon displays gorgeous scents and flavors of lime, anise, pineapple, quince, and orange liqueur. Lush and sweet yet juicy and pronouncedly fresh-fruited on the palate, it finishes quite hauntingly, with distinct wet stone and a hint of caramel adding further complexity. This should age nicely for at least a decade." 92 Points Wine Advocate

    • "Seems bright and easy at first, but there is some genuine power to the fig, quince and pear flavors. Excellent definition and length thanks to a fine underlying minerality. Drink now through 2011." 92 Points Wine Spectator