
Clos du Tue-Boeuf Cheverny Blanc Frileuse
Country: France
Region: Loire
Grapes: Sauvignon Blanc, Menu Pineau, Fié Gris, Chardonnay
Vintage: 2023
Clos du Tue-Boeuf is a producer known for its organic viticulture and unique approach to winemaking in the region of Touraine in the Loire Valley. The estate consists of 10 hectares in Les Montils (part of the Cheverny AOC) and an additional four hectares in a nearby village, all farmed organically since 1996. Previously managed by local legend Thierry Puzelat and his bother Jean-Marie, it's now managed by Thierry's daughters Zoë and Louise. Working with minimal intervention in the vineyard and no additions in the cellar the blend of grapes in each cuvée often differs year to year as do the wines themselves.
Frileuse ("Little Cold One") is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Menu Pineau, Fié Gris, and Chardonnay from the frost-prone vineyard at the top of the Puzelat's estate. Grapes are hand harvested and immediately pressed to preserve freshness and clarity of fruit. The wine undergoes spontaneous fermentation before ageing for 6 months in old Burgundy barrels. Fresh, juicy and mineral with notes of white fruit, citrus, flowers and a zingy, saline finish.