Domaine de Salvert 2005 Tasting Notes

Anjou rouge Les Noëlles 2004
Anjou blanc Cuvée 1895 2004

Our red Anjou 2004 - Les Noëlles - is a unique blend of 40% Cabernet Franc, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Merlot.  Complementing the characteristic raspberry and blackcurrant nose and flavour of the two Cabernets, the Merlot brings a more gentle floral finesse.  The result is a lovely medium-bodied, fruity wine with soft, well-balanced tannins and a distinctive leathery nose, and Georges describes this as a ‘cousin’ of his medal-winning 2003!  This is a very versatile wine: when young it goes well with cold meats, pâtés and pasta in rich tomato-based sauces; with up to five years of bottle age it will accompany roast chicken, roast pork and some mild cheeses.
 
This year our exclusive white Anjou 2004 - Cuvée 1895 - is 100% Chenin Blanc, Georges having decided after much tasting and testing that the Chenin was so good on its own it did not need the extra fruity ‘oomph’ traditionally given by the Chardonnay.  Top-quality Chenin produces a dry, fruity wine with a nose and tastes of citrus and quince merging with apples, to give a lovely balance and a rich, long-lasting taste.  Great as an apéritif, with cold meats (especially ham) and crudités, this versatile wine is also good with plain grilled fish, poultry and pork.  Drink young, or within three years of the vintage.