2019 Dominique Belluard Ayze Mont-Blanc Brut Nature

WINEMAKER: Dominique Belluard
REGION: Savoie, FR
VARIETY: Gringet
VITICULTURE: Biodynamic

A lovely sparkling wine made by Dominique Belluard before his untimely death, from 100% Gringet, a traditional grape of the Savoie region and nominated as a grape for sparkling and still wines in the Vin de Savoie Ayze appellation. It displays both finesse and minerality and can be drunk as an aperitif or throughout a meal and even with dessert if required. It is a fine sparkling wine. This wine is matured for longer than the standard Brut.

Here is what Tim Gagnon from Chambers Street Wines in New York had to say about this lovely wine: "Made from Gringet grown at 450m in elevation, this is serious stuff. It spends three years on the lees which results in a rich and textured wine, with delicate aromatics. Orange blossom, pear skin, and granny smith apple rise from the glass, while the palate is much more mineral. It is quite powerful, and would give any Champagne a run for the money in terms of complexity."

Vale Dominique Belluard. A leading vigneron of the Savoie leaving behind a great legacy. "Many of you will know about the tragic death of Dominique Belluard during the Covid epidemic. He was an extraordinary vigneron who leaves a great legacy, not least of which is the recognition he gained for his beloved Gringet grape variety. However, all is not lost. Dominique’s wife, Valérie, has negotiated for a young, talented winemaker to take over the Gringet vineyards and to make future cuvees of the wine. The new business will be called Domaine de Gringet in recognition of the grape that Dominique brought to the attention of the world!" - Living Wines