Masson-Blondelet Pouilly-Fume Tradition Cullus 2020 (750ML)

96 DE / 93 WE

From a walled vineyard planted to 60-80 year old vines. Kimmeridgean marl (white clay and fossilized shells and oysters). Their juice is fermented and raised in a 600 liters (demi-muid) oak barrel, and then blended in a stainless steel tank for 18 more months. Production 4000-8000 bottles dependent upon the vintage.

Jean-Michel and Michelle Masson took over the running of the family domaine in 1975, and their daughter Mélanie and son Pierre-François are now fully involved. Today they have 21ha in Pouilly-Fumé and Sancerre. This wine is from a 1.5ha parcel on Kimmeridgian marl, the domaine’s oldest vines at 60-80 years. Fermented in 600L French oak barrels then 12 months’ maturation in oak and 12 months in stainless steel. The Cullus is made only in the best vintages. Jim Budd: Ripe stone fruit aromas, vibrant balancing acidity, good length. A powerful wine but still has freshness on the finish, with potential to age further. Natalie Earl: Crushed rocks, a toasty char and bags of honeysuckle and jasmine florals, pineapple peeping in, too. Well defined, excellent concentration, balanced by chalky minerality and an almond skin bitterness. Ben Llewelyn: Very flashy aromatics, high-toned and confident. Box, lemon verbena and thyme all make an appearance on a taut and lean and balanced palate.--Decanter

This lightly wood-aged wine is smooth and offers ripe white fruits. Its hints of toast are beautifully judged, giving a rounded wine that will be ready to drink from 2024. — Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast