2020 VDF 'Les Noëls de Montbenault'

Marie-Lise & Thomas Batardière

$110 750ml Sale

Made from young vines, Thomas planted this 0.25ha plot in 2014. And so, this is only the first wine made from this site. Montbenault is one of the most beautiful spots in Anjou, and the parcel sits on top of the hill. It is made up of grey and blue schist, as well as lots of rhyolite, a red volcanic rock rich in silica. Aged in old 500L barrels for 10 months, then another two months in tank before bottling. Zero added SO2.

Clear, super clean and pristine. This is super mineral. Tightly wound and not giving much on the nose initially. In the mouth it is linear and fine, and super mineral. Riverstone schist vibes. Huge tension, with fine texture and a little hint of spice. The fruit is wrapped up for the moment, with hints of unripe nectarines, crisp apple and a touch of lime. Very fresh and straight. Super dry, with no real honey notes – just flinty minerality, and so much of it. Feels like grapes picked early, as sugars are low. Later on, the smell is of nashi pears and white flowers – all very refined and subtle. Even better on day two. Drink now with a decant, or age for a few years.

Loire Valley
2020
Chenin Blanc
VDF
2020 VDF 'Les Noëls de Montbenault'