Dom. Des Baumard Clos de Sainte Catherine Coteaux du Layon 2004
Chenin Blanc
from Loire, France
winemaker's notes:
"From a sandy site near Rochefort and showing every sign of rigorous botrytis selection, the Baumard 2004 Coteaux du Layon Clos de Sainte Catherine displays a gorgeous bouquet of gardenia, quince jelly, orange, and pineapple. Succulent and rich yet wafting and dynamic in its palate interchange of mineral, floral, zesty and pungently herbal, and richly fruited elements, this finishes with a levitating, (magic-)carpet-like impression of quince, candied orange rind, quinine, flowers and minerals.
Here is the satisfaction of a caper perfectly executed by a fine dusting of botrytis, but where you'll dust in vain afterward to pick up any finger prints! You can feel confident enjoying this anytime over the next 15 years."
Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate
93 Points
"Great purity and drive, with clean-cut quince, fig and mineral notes that run from the start through the lengthy, fresh finish. Beautiful. Drink now through 2012."
Wine Spectator
93 Points
