Sébastien David "Hurluberlu" Loire Valley, France 2023

FROM T. EDWARD:

THE WINE: "Hurluberlu" is crafted from 20 distinct parcels and stands as the estate's largest cuvée. The name "Hurluberlu" is actually Sebastien's nickname, bestowed upon him by the villagers, meaning "someone with their head in the clouds". This wine is crafted in a primeur style, emphasizing vibrant fruit character. Made from 100% Cabernet Franc, the grapes are meticulously hand-harvested in small crates. The winemaking process involves 25 days of carbonic maceration, with daily racking of the juice to minimize skin contact extraction. After pressing, the free-run and press juices are blended and aged in concrete tanks for several months. True to Sebastien's low-intervention philosophy, the wine is bottled without filtration and zero added sulfites.

THE PRODUCER: Sebastien David, an ardent supporter of biodynamic viticulture, established Domaine Sebastien David, a 12-hectare winery nestled in the heart of France's Loire Valley. Coming from a lineage of winemakers, Sebastien's vision was to craft wines that truly captured the essence of the Loire Valley's terroir, highlighting the distinct qualities of Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc grapes. Central to his winemaking philosophy is the belief that harmonious interaction with nature is paramount in creating exceptional wines. This principle is reflected in his practice of biodynamic viticulture, where he employs natural preparations and follows a lunar calendar to ensure the vines thrive in a healthy and balanced environment.