2012 Valandraud Blanc
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Tasting notes
The 2012 Valandraud Blanc is Murielle Andraud's more textured white. Made from the estate's best fruit and vinified in barrel, the Blanc is quite a bit richer than the Virginie de Valandraud. Here the textures are rich, sensual and inviting, with an extra kick of gravitas that propels the powerful, resonant finish. Even with all of its intensity, the Blanc retains gorgeous freshness.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
I have never been a big fan of Jean-Luc Thunevin’s dry whites and the 2012 Valandraud blanc seems tart, crisp and lacking generosity and charm. Enjoy both wines over the next 5-6 years.
75% Sauvignon Blanc, 15% Sauvignon Gris, barrel fermented, 50% new oak. Very pale citrus. Both creamy and zesty. Richly textured thanks to the barrels and the lees but zingy and fresh too. Subtle mealy oak influence and fine fruit. Very good. (JH)
About the producer
One of the first garage wines, Ch. Valandraud was created by Jean-Luc Thunevin – Saint-Emilion’s “bad boy”. Today the style of the wine is much more restrained, and officially classified as a Premier Grand Cru Classé B estate.