Domaine Didier Dagueneau, Clos du Calvaire, Vin de France ***On Allocation***, 2021

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

Clos du Calvaire is a small, walled vineyard parcel situated on classic flint (silex) soils in Saint-Andelain. Farmed according to biodynamic principles, the site is handled with great care: low yields, extensive canopy work, and hand-harvesting in successive passes ensure pristine fruit and full site expression.

Winemaking

Native yeast fermentation occurs in large-format, neutral oak barrels. Ageing on fine lees in the same vessels continues for several months, with minimal bâtonnage to preserve the wine’s taut profile. Oak influence is subtle and structural, allowing the stony minerality to take centre stage. Bottled unfiltered, with minimal sulphur, the wine retains purity and potential for graceful ageing.

Tasting Note

It opens with notes of white grapefruit, elderflower, lime peel, and a signature touch of gunflint smoke. The palate is sharply defined, with brisk acidity carrying flavours of crisp green apple, citrus oil, and a saline finish. Pure, linear, and lifted, it shows both finesse and quiet power.

Food Matching

Chicken in a lemon-thyme cream sauce or grilled courgettes with lemon ricotta and toasted pine nuts