Domaine Didier Dagueneau, Asteroide, Vin de France, Loire, France ***On Allocation***, 2022

Producer Profile

Domaine Didier Dagueneau – Iconic Pouilly-Fumé with a cult following!

Founded in 1982 by the legendary Didier Dagueneau, this celebrated estate in Saint-Andelain, in the heart of Pouilly-Fumé, produces some of the most distinctive and sought-after Sauvignon Blancs in the world. Revered by collectors and sommeliers alike, Dagueneau wines are benchmarks not only for Pouilly-Fumé but for the entire Loire Valley – including top-tier Sancerres. Didier came from a winemaking family but first found fame as a champion motorcycle sidecar racer before becoming a revolutionary force in the wine world. Unafraid to challenge convention, he transformed the image of Pouilly-Fumé through the apdoption of low yields, biodynamic farming, horse-drawn ploughing, and meticulous attention to detail in both vineyard and cellar. His wines became known for their power, precision and ageworthiness, showcasing the pure expression of Sauvignon Blanc with a flinty, mineral-driven edge. Oak ageing and extended lees contact add depth, texture, and complexity, making these wines stand out on any wine list. Today, Didier’s son Louis-Benjamin Dagueneau carries the torch, upholding his father’s legacy with the same uncompromising standards. Under his guidance, the domaine remains a symbol of innovation and excellence.

Viticulture

From an ancient, pre-phylloxera parcel of ungrafted vines in Saint-Andelain, grown on pure silex. This minuscule, historic site is farmed biodynamically with obsessive attention—low yields, hand cultivation, and precise harvesting all contribute to the wine’s singularity.

Winemaking

Fermented with native yeasts in a single, large neutral oak barrel. The wine spent extended time on its lees with no bâtonnage, encouraging slow, natural evolution. Oak is used only for texture—not flavour—and there is no fining or filtration. Astéroïde is bottled by hand, with extreme care, and in minute quantities. It is a wine of tension, detail, and absolute terroir expression.

Tasting Note

The nose is tightly wound yet quietly expressive, with notes of lemon zest, crushed oyster shell, flint smoke, and a whisper of wild herbs. The palate is razor-sharp and ultra-mineral, delivering green citrus, white peach skin, and a profound saline core. Long, linear, and endlessly layered, it finishes with a fine chalky grip and restrained intensity. A wine for deep contemplation.

Food Matching

Barely seared langoustine with citrus beurre blanc, oyster tartare, or white asparagus with hazelnut and lemon sabayon.