# Tareq Taylor Crémant de Loire (NV)

- **Producer:** Gratien & Meyer
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €14
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 4–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** grapefruit, peach, lemon, apple, pear, pastry, biscuit, bread dough, honey

## About this wine

The Tareq Taylor Crémant de Loire is a non-vintage sparkling wine produced by Gratien & Meyer under the Crémant de Loire AOC in France's Loire Valley. It is a collaborative effort with Swedish chef Tareq Taylor. The wine's blend is distinctive, often incorporating Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir. Gratien & Meyer, founded in 1864, is recognized for its commitment to the traditional method of sparkling wine production and its use of tufa galleries for aging.

## Interesting facts

- Features a golden turtle, Tareq Taylor's lucky amulet, on its label.
- The blend can include Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir.
- Crémant de Loire wines must age for a minimum of 9 months on lees.
- Produced using the traditional method, with secondary fermentation in the bottle.

## Food pairing

The wine's fresh acidity and subtle fruit notes are well-suited to cut through richer textures and complement delicate flavors. Its effervescence also cleanses the palate, making it an excellent companion for seafood and appetizers.

## Wine making process

The Tareq Taylor Crémant de Loire is produced using the traditional method (méthode traditionnelle), which involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle to create its effervescence. Grapes are manually harvested, a requirement for the Crémant de Loire AOC. Following primary fermentation, the wine undergoes a minimum of 9 months of aging on its lees before disgorgement. Gratien & Meyer, the producer, is known for its aging practices in tufa galleries.