Bouvet Ladubay Saphir Saumur Brut 2023

A traditional method sparkling wine from Saumur’s Bouvet Ladubay

Founded in 1851 by Etienne Bouvet and his wife, Célestine Ladubay, Bouvet Ladubay now produces over 6 million bottles per year.

Based in Saumur, in France’s Loire Valley, the company’s aspiration is to produce wines which are of excellence. The result is generations of family savoir-faire from one of the most awarded houses in France.

The winery’s range of Loire sparkling wines, produced solely under ‘Méthode Traditionnelle’ process using sustainable viticulture practices and are HVE (High Environmental Value) certified.

The signature style of Bouvet Ladubay is white wines produced in Blanc de Blancs style with Chenin and Chardonnay in variable proportions.

They say:

This summer, elevate your gatherings with the Bouvet ‘Saphir’ Saumur Brut Vintage 2023 (£16 at Majestic), the sophisticated choice for those seeking bubbles in the sunshine.

Crafted using the traditional method, this vintage sparkling wine is a testament to quality and elegance, offering a delightful experience for the savvy drinker. Founded in 1851, Bouvet Ladubay has established itself as a beacon of excellence in the world of sparkling wines, and ‘Saphir’ Saumur Brut Vintage 2023 is no exception.

Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, this esteemed winery has been crafting exceptional wines for well over a century, combining traditional methods with innovative techniques. Bouvet Ladubay’s commitment to quality and precision has earned it a distinguished reputation, with its wines celebrated for their elegance and complexity.

The winery’s rich history is a testament to its enduring passion for winemaking, as it continues to delight connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike with each meticulously crafted release.

Made from a blend of Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay, Saphir Saumur Brut Vintage 2023 boasts a brioche-rich character that sets it apart. A patient maturation of 18 months and a “brut” and refined dosage finalise the high-definition character of this “Brut de Loire”. Each bottle is numbered and produced in limited edition.

In 2023, the 2020 vintage of this delicious wine was honoured with a Gold and “Best In Class” award at Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships (CSWWC), highlighting its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

Perfect for pairing with white fish in a buttery sauce, the Saphir Saumur Brut Vintage 2023 is versatile enough to enhance any summer menu. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or a casual barbecue, this wine promises to impress with its crispness and depth.

In addition to its delightful taste, since the creation of the Bouvet Ladubay Contemporary Art Centre in 1992, each vintage of the Saphir Cuvée carries a “Muselet d’Artistes”. The 2023 vintage features a muselet depicting an artwork by Christian Sorg who exhibited during Summer 2023. This unique collaboration brings an artistic flair to our bottles, making them not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes.

So, whether you’re planning a sophisticated summer soirée or a laid-back picnic, let Bouvet Ladubay be your wine of choice, offering the perfect touch of elegance and versatility for any occasion.

Bouvet Ladubay Saphir Saumur Brut 2023 (£16 / £12, Majestic)

Elegant, fresh, complex fizz

12.5%

Chenin Blanc, with some Chardonnay

18 months on the lees

pale straw yellow, orchard fruits, citrus and delicate florality; fresh, elegant citrus, green apple, acacia, white peach and conference pear; creamy Brazil nut. Broad, elegant and saline with good savoury underpinnings. Harmonious and balanced with a fine mousse.

Good.

Drinks nicely on first opening, opens up with aeration and will repay some cellaring.

Fresh enough for an aperitif and a versatile match starters such as smoked salmon, pork rillettes or Jambon persillé.

Others say: Bouvet-Ladubay, 2018 Update | Winedoctor (thewinedoctor.com)