Michel Redde Barre à Mine Pouilly-Fumé Sauvignon Blanc 2014

Michel Redde’s Flint-Rooted Sauvignon Blanc
Nestled in Tracy-sur-Loire’s sun-drenched southwest slopes lies Les Champs des Froids—a 4-hectare vineyard resurrected from abandoned flint quarries. Michel Redde’s pioneering project marries ancient geology with modern viticulture: vines take root in nutrient-poor, flint-laced soils, forcing grapes to develop concentrated flavors while minimizing irrigation needs.

Hand-planted using traditional barre à mine techniques (literally “pickaxe” in French viticulture), this Sauvignon Blanc embodies terroir-driven elegance. The rocky substrate imparts signature citrus zest and smoky minerality, balanced by vibrant acidity—a contrast to overwatered or over-farmed alternatives.

Why This Stands Out
✅ Flint Terroir Advantage: Rare Loire Valley site where 90% of soil volume is fractured flint, intensifying flavor complexity.
✅ Low-Yield Craftsmanship: Yields capped at 35hl/ha to preserve intensity; hand-harvested during optimal morning humidity.
✅ Sustainability Legacy: Rehabilitated derelict land while maintaining organic practices since 2012 (certified pending 2024 harvest).

Aged 6 months in stainless steel to retain freshness, this wine pairs perfectly with oysters, goat cheese tartsines, or herb-crusted salmon. Limited annual production of 8,000 bottles ensures each vintage reflects its unique growing season.

Discover why sommeliers call this “Loire’s hidden gem”—where centuries-old stone meets contemporary winemaking precision.