Certified biodynamic (which is quite rare in Azay-Le-Rideau) and has been for over ten years (even rarer still). All work is done by hand, usually without help, and he limits copper and sulfur sprayings to 500 grams a year: 75% less than commonly used by other producers in the area. About 25 friends help during harvest in multiple passes, berry by berry, ensuring that the grapes reach peak maturity. Whole-cluster fermentation is in concrete tank; malolactic fermentation and élevage in terra cotta amphora for 24 months. Unfined, unfiltered, no sulfur.
We love it with: 🍖🥓🍝
Type: Red
Vintage: 2018
Size: 750 mL
Grape: Malbec
Region: Azay le Rideau, Touraine, Loire, France
Vinification: "Show me a fanatic and I’ll show you a success," goes the saying, and truer words could not be said about Quentin Bourse – the “Idiot Angel” of Azay-Le-Rideau. While that is the rough translation of the name of his label, Le Sot de L’Ange, he is a far cry from anything remotely resembling an idiot. His relentless work ethic, innovation, and borderline obsessive perfectionism result in meticulously crafted, serious wines. 'Le Jardin' is made from 100% Côt from an interesting plot with two distinct soil types: one section with clay and silex soils and another with clay and limestone. Deep, dark, serious, and structured without being overly heavy - this is a stunning example of a serious red from a natty winemaker that has nerve and shows notes of black cherry, tart plum, and silky tannin.