DOMAINE DES BAUMARD Quarts de Chaume - Loire Valley 1996 Bottle (Chenin Blanc)

Description

IN BRIEF
Domaine des Baumard Quarts de Chaume 1996 is an exceptional dessert wine that reveals the finesse of the Chenin Blanc grape from the esteemed Quarts de Chaume appellation in the Loire Valley, France. Scoring an impressive 96 points from The Wine Advocate, this vintage showcases a beautiful golden hue and enchanting aromas of honey, apricot, and ripe pear, complemented by delicate floral hints. On the palate, a luscious sweetness is expertly balanced by vibrant acidity, offering a luxurious mouthfeel filled with layers of stone fruits, caramel, and nutmeg. The long, satisfying finish demonstrates its remarkable ageing potential. It pairs beautifully with desserts like crème brûlée and rich blue cheeses, making it a treasured choice for wine enthusiasts and collectors alike.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Domaine des Baumard Quarts de Chaume 1996 is an extraordinary dessert wine that showcases the elegance and complexity of the Chenin Blanc grape from the distinguished Quarts de Chaume appellation in the Loire Valley, France. This vintage exemplifies the region's ability to produce exquisite late-harvest wines, crafted with meticulous care and exceptional skill.

In the glass, this wine displays a stunning golden hue, indicative of its age and the concentrated flavours that have developed over time. The aroma is captivating, featuring intense notes of honey, apricot, and ripe pear, complemented by delicate floral hints and a whisper of citrus. The nose alone entices you to savour its rich profile.

On the palate, Domaine des Baumard Quarts de Chaume 1996 reveals a sumptuous sweetness that is beautifully balanced by vibrant acidity. This harmony creates a luscious mouthfeel, inviting you to explore the layered flavours of ripe stone fruits, luscious caramel, and a touch of nutmeg, which lend complexity to each sip. The wine has a velvety texture that coats the mouth, concluding with a long, satisfying finish that showcases its impressive ageing potential.

This vintage pairs delightfully with a range of desserts, such as crème brûlée, fruit tarts, or indulgent chocolate dishes. It also complements rich blue cheeses, like Roquefort, allowing the contrasting flavours to enhance the overall tasting experience.

In summary, Domaine des Baumard Quarts de Chaume 1996 is a sublime dessert wine that offers an unforgettable journey through its rich flavours and storied history. It embodies the essence of its terroir and the artistry of winemaking, making it a cherished choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Those fortunate enough to experience this wine are in for a truly enchanting treat.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 96 points
Drink Date 1999 - 2030
The Quarts de Chaume displays honeysuckle, liquid minerals and touches of almond paste aromatically as well as a stunning, driven character with virtually perfect harmony and balance between its sweet super-ripe fruit and acidity. This floral and quince-laden, well-delineated wine has a seemingly unending finish. Anticipated maturity: 1999-2030+. - Pierre Rovani, 10/97

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ABOUT DOMAINE DES BAUMARDS
Domaine des Baumard is a distinguished wine producer in the Loire Valley, specifically located in the Anjou-Saumur region of France. Established in 1634, this family-owned estate has garnered a formidable reputation for its exceptional wines, primarily centred around the Chenin Blanc grape variety, which flourishes in the region’s diverse terroir.

The vineyards at Domaine des Baumard are predominantly situated in the acclaimed Coteaux du Layon, known for its unique microclimates and soil types that contribute to the complexity of the wines. The estate practices sustainable viticulture, focusing on minimising environmental impact while enhancing the quality of its grapes. This commitment to the environment is evident in the meticulous care taken throughout the growing season and harvest.

Domaine des Baumard is particularly renowned for its outstanding sweet wines, such as Quarts de Chaume and Coteaux du Layon. These wines are celebrated for their rich, concentrated flavours, showcasing a harmonious balance of sweetness and acidity. Typical tasting notes include honey, apricot, and citrus, with a remarkable ability to age gracefully, allowing the development of complex secondary aromas over time.

In addition to its sweet offerings, the estate produces remarkable dry wines, notably Savennières, which exhibit a mineral-driven character and a structured profile. The winemaking philosophy at Domaine des Baumard embraces minimal intervention, allowing for natural fermentation processes and the use of indigenous yeasts. This approach helps in capturing the true essence of the terroir in each bottle.

Overall, Domaine des Baumard's dedication to quality, tradition, and sustainable practices has firmly established it as a prominent player in the French wine industry, appealing to wine enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate the craftsmanship and distinctive expressions of the Loire Valley's diverse grape varieties.