2021 Domaine du Bel Air Bourgueil Grand Mont

Domaine du Bel is comprised of 18 hectares of vineyards located in the village of Benais, just east of Bourgeuil. This certified organic estate is run by Pierre Guathier and his son Rodolphe, and produce deep, age-worthy single parcel wines which are incredible discoveries for Cabernet Franc devotees and Loire Valley wine lovers.

Grand Mont sits on a high chalky clay and limestone plateau, and average vine age here is around 70 years. All bunches are 100% destemmed, sorted and then after a cold maceration they are fermented by indigenous yeasts, before maturing in 600 litre third or fourth-fill barrels for up to 24 months.

Other Reviews...
The 2021 Grand Mont is savory and serious. There's richness and intensity of fruit despite a clear freshness that keeps this light on its feet. This is not a big, ripe Grand Mont like the 2018, but it has tenderness and finesse with a chalky, powdery texture on the palate. The 2021 is precise, balanced and full of sinew on the finish. Drink 2026-2040.
94 points
Rebecca Gibb MW - Vinous