Domaine Fouassier Clos Paradis Sancerre 2005

Domaine Fouassier's 2005 Clos Paradis makes a compelling case for itself as the quintessential Sancerre. From the wine's bright fresh nose and sunshiny robe, the tone is set. The 2005 Clos Paradis's amplifying bouquet of melon, fig, herb, and fresh mown grass fills the senses and prepares the taster for a second wave of pleasure: on the palate this wine caresses the mouth with soft, ripe fruit and a beautifully balanced feel. And to add to this wine's supreme flavor and texture is a crisp, friendly finish that leaves the mouth thoroughly refreshed and ready for more. We suggest serving this quintessential Sancerre ice cold and then allowing it to evolve slowly in the glass as it reaches a more ambient temperature (45° -50° F).

"Sancerre was made for seafood," states the prevailing wisdom of the ages, and indeed the 2005 Domaine Fouassier Clos Paradis provides ample evidence to support this traditional French mantra. Seared Seas Scallops in truffle butter served over a bed of organic greens or Steamed New Zealand Green Lipped Oysters, prepared with a tomato, fennel, and crème fresh, offer two excellent reasons to serve Clos Paradis. In fact, just about any white fish and shellfish, including lobster, provide ideal companions to complement Fouassier's famous Sancerre. With such wine and seafood one might be tempted to re-think one's definition of paradise. Yet, why stop there? Sancerre is more than just a seafood wine. Sancerre is a wonderful aperitif and a fine choice with hors d'oeuvres, sweet breads, and all kinds of cheeses. Domaine Fouassier's Clos Paradis is one of our favorite choices with Baked Brie and most other crusted cheeses. Bon Appétit!

Domaine Fouassier is an historic property in Sancerre that specializes in the production of small lots of charming, pure, white Sancerre wines from distinctive terroir. The Fouassier family has been an integral part of the Sancerre appellation for many generations. In fact, cousins Benoit and Paul Fouassier constitute the tenth generation of this legendary family to make wine in Sancerre. In addition to a long legacy of fine winemaking, Domaine Fouassier also owns the distinction of possessing one of the most important vineyards in Sancerre – Clos Paradis. Clos Paradis is a well situated south facing vineyard that possesses an ideal terroir, including the ultimate combination of chalk and clay, which provides the best Sancerre wines with all the ingredients they need to charm and beguile. Clos Paradis, which was planted in 1902 by Jules Fouassier, is also one of the very first vineyards in Sancerre to be planted using scientific and technical methods that are ideal for Sauvignon Blanc, which is Sancerre's only permitted white grape variety. In addition to Clos Paradis, Domaine Fouassier fashions at least eight other unique white Sancerre wines, all from individual soils and vineyards. This wonderful domain also turns out a delightful red Pinot Noir and a Pinot Noir rosé, in addition to numerous other fine Sauvignon Blanc wines from nearby appellations such as Pouilly-Fumé, Menetou-Salon, and Quincy. In all, Domaine Fouassier comprises 110 acres of splendid vineyards in Sancerre and the surrounding villages along the upper reaches of the Loire.