A Toast to Tradition

The aroma of freshly baked pizza mingled with the crisp, elegant notes of Sancerre on the 15th of June 2026, as Pizza on Fire at Laguna Phuket played host to a memorable wine tasting event. Patrick Tsu, Export Manager for Asia, the Middle East, and Central & Eastern Europe, presented a captivating exploration of the esteemed Joseph Mellot winery, a family-run vineyard with a legacy stretching back to 1513.

Guests were transported to the heart of the Loire Valley as Mr. Tsu unveiled the rich history and meticulous winemaking philosophy of La Maison Joseph Mellot.

The winery cultivates vineyards across all eight appellations of the Centre-Loire region: Sancerre, the family’s historic birthplace; Pouilly-Fumé; Quincy; Reuilly; Menetou-Salon; Coteaux du Giennois; Châteaumeillant; and Pouilly-sur-Loire. Each appellation contributes unique characteristics to the wines, reflecting the diverse terroirs and the nuanced expressions of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

Mr. Tsu emphasised the commitment of Catherine Corbeau-Mellot and her sons to sustainable viticulture and uncompromising quality.

Their dedication to preserving the environment while crafting exceptional wines resonated with the attendees, showcasing a modern approach deeply rooted in centuries of tradition. He described how the wines of Joseph Mellot are crafted with finesse, elegance, precision, minerality, and freshness – a signature style evident in every cuvée.

The presentation delved into the specific terroirs that shape the character of Joseph Mellot wines. From the flinty soils of Sancerre, which lend a distinctive minerality, to the sandy, gravelly terrains of Quincy, known for producing fresh and aromatic wines, each location contributes a unique layer to the Joseph Mellot narrative.

Guests learned about the three soil types of Sancerre – Terres Blanches, Caillottes, and Silex – and how they influence the complexity and character of the Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir grapes grown there. The presentation highlighted Joseph Mellot’s strategic vineyard holdings across the region, allowing them to showcase the diverse expressions of the Loire Valley.

Pouilly-Fumé, with its harmonious blend of fruity and floral notes, and the lesser-known appellations like Reuilly and Menetou-Salon, each offered a glimpse into the breadth and depth of the Centre-Loire’s winemaking potential.

Beyond the tasting notes, the event also highlighted Joseph Mellot’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Mr. Tsu explained the winery’s dedication to sustainable practices, including High Environmental Value (HVE) and organic certifications.

He elaborated on the meticulous vineyard management, from careful soil cultivation to the preservation of biodiversity through the integration of hedgerows, trees, and beehives. The winery’s ISO 14001 certification and annual carbon footprint assessments further demonstrated their dedication to minimising their environmental impact.

The owners of Pizza on Fire, Mr. Robert de Graaff and Madame Bussaba, ensured the wine tasting was a truly immersive experience. They curated a selection of delectable dishes and appetisers perfectly complementing the featured wines.

The warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with the insightful presentation and the superb food pairings, created a truly memorable evening.

Thanks to their efforts, the event was a resounding success, leaving guests with a newfound appreciation for the artistry and dedication behind Joseph Mellot wines.