Domaine des Pothiers Vin de St. Nizier 2008

So, what is the Vin de Pays d'Urfe St. Nizier (that's its full name) you speak of? Simply, it's gamay from the Cotes Roannaise. The Roannaise Coast is one of the most southerly vineyards in the Loire Valley.  It sits near the beginning of the Loire River and overlooks the valley and forms the foothills of the Massif Central. Domaine des Pothiers is just 10 hectares with vineyards planted at 400 to 500 meters high in sandy, porous granite soils. Perfect for the grape Gamay St. Romain.  

What's all the fuss?  It's delicious! It mimics Cru Beaujolais in a way, but gives you that high toned Loire-ness. Bright fresh ripe cherry fruit, merely mid-weight (perfect for the heat) and great minerality and acidity (yes sir I'll have another!). It's hugging on to your leg and won't let you leave without it!

Vin de St. Nizier    $18 a bottle

meet the family

George, Denise + Roman Pair
It's a wonderful commentary that with such delicious wines, there is no exalted winemaker here at Domaine des Pothiers. Instead, there is a lovely family who simply refers to themselves and their wine in a casual manner. George works with the cows and keeps the equipment up and running. Oh, and he spends some time in the vineyard. Denise, oh yeah, she does some administrative work and answers phone calls, and, right, spends some time in the vineyard (i've seen pictures of her with a carrier on her back harvesting grapes). And then there's Roman who provides marketing, organizing shipments and, oh fine, he spends time actively involved in the winemaking. It's great! Truly a family business with one goal, many hands and lots of heart. The wines are damn fine too, and certified organic.