2018 Domaine Didier Dagueneau Silex Magnum (1500ml)

Pouilly Fumé and Sancerre are the global benchmarks for Sauvignon Blanc, and there is no bigger name or more highly regarded producer in the area than Domaine Didier Dagueneau. Now under the guidance of Didier's talented son Louis-Benjamin, the wines still follow his ethos that authentic Pouilly Fumé requires healthy fruit from low yielding, old vines to produce the purest, and most intense and vibrantly fresh wine. That's not to say these wines are typical of the appellation. Given the severely low yields and approach to élevage, Dagueneau wines emphasise a creamy texture rather than bracing acidity, and combine mineral flavours with exotic fruits to supreme effect.

For many, the aptly named Silex is the pinnacle not only in the Dagueneau range, but in all of Pouilly Fumé. Hailing from a north facing vineyard rich in flint soils, the emphasis with Silex is the pure mineral traits Pouilly Fumé is famous for, yet with intensity and focus dialled up to eleven. Silex can take a few years in the cellar to fully express the core of citrus fruit among the smoke and flint notes; however history has proven it is well worth the wait. Dagueneau's Silex is a class leading icon of the Loire Valley.

Other Reviews....
Perhaps the most famous of the Dagueneau cuvées, the 2018 Silex is flowing and accessible on entry, but then it coils and tightens. The silex (flint) soil gives firmness, imbuing structure and steely tension. Power and concentration combine, providing an almost waxy texture on the finish. Flavors of spiced apples, almonds and pastry linger. It's just not quite as long as expected. Tasted over three days. Drink 2021 - 2028.
93 points
Rebecca Gibb MW - Vinous