From young vines planted in formerly long-barren acreage, the Dagueneau 2009 Sancerre Monts Damnes smells of ripe white peach, lime, and nut oils, along with intimations of chalk dust. The promises of the nose are fulfilled on a palate additionally suffused with a gorgeous, sweet-saline savor of lobster shell reduction. A smoky, fusil hint of red currant, peat, and struck stones carries throughout as well. The chalky and savory mineral elements, nut oils, and ripe yet fresh fruit convey a luscious length that doesn’t betray the wine’s over-14% alcohol. This should be worth following for a decade or more, although no one can speak from experience yet on that score. - WA
WA94