1996 Moulin Touchais

The wines of Moulin Touchais begin reaching their peak after twenty years, and many of the great vintages will take much longer. Vintages such as the 1953, 1959, 1964, 1969 are still maturing. The 1945, 1947 and 1949 have become classics. Moulin Touchais are the only winemakers in the world who give a century long guarantee on the longevity of their wines (subject to being kept under optimal cellar conditions). Bottles may show some sediment or deposit. One should understand this is due to the traditional filtration process, the main aim being to protect the colour, the bouquet and the depth of flavour of the wine.

Bright lemon gold colour with golden straw edges and pale gold hue. The nose is a touch restrained at first but opens up to reveal aromas of quince, lemon, apple and spice followed by a touch of honey as an end note. The palate is quite spicy, more so than the previous vintages tasted (99, 98 & 97) and displays flavours of baked apple, spice and lemon honey with spiced honey back palate flavours. Outstanding mouthfeel and concentration. Excellent acidity and structure with a clean finish, looking very youthful and showing no signs of bottle age whatsoever. Exceptionally long aftertaste of baked apple, spiced honey and quince.
Cellar 20-30 years (2030-2040)
Alc 13.5%

Other Reviews....
This estate, owned by the same family since 1787, has amazing stocks of old sweet wines maturing in its cellars. With red apple, honey and apricot aromas, this wine, mature and yet so fresh, is proof of the aging ability of Chenin Blanc. It is the balance between the ripe honeyed flavors and the intense acidity that keeps it so vibrant. Drink this superb wine now.
95 points
Roger Voss - Wine Enthusiast