Château Tirecul La Gravière ' Andrea 2021 '

Château Tirecul La Gravière is the undisputed top domain of the Monbazillac appellation, located on the left bank of the Dordogne in the Périgord, about 100 kilometers east of Bordeaux. In 1992, Claudie and Bruno Bilancini leased the historic Tirecul vineyard - considered for centuries to be one of the region's Premiers Crus - and purchased the 400-year-old estate five years later. Bruno, a trained oenologist, organically cultivates his 16 hectares on chalk and clay-rich soils. The domain produces four cuvées, of which Andrea is the only dry white wine: a blend of Sémillon and Muscadelle, aged in 15% new French oak for 18 months, and then kept in bottle for another two years before release.

Description: Golden yellow, expressive and full-bodied, with aromas of ripe white fruit, acacia, hazelnut, and a subtle flint mineralilty. Broad and creamy on the palate, with fresh acidity and a long, elegant finish.

Delicious with: Grilled seafood, foie gras, rich fish dishes, or aged soft cheeses such as Brie de Meaux.

Fun fact: In the 17th and 18th centuries, Monbazillac wines were sold at the same price as Sauternes. Tirecul La Gravière is still considered the absolute benchmark of the appellation today.