Thomas Batardière Chenin Blanc ‘Montbenault’ Vin de France 2022 750ml

A fantastic wine from Marie-Lise and Thomas Batardiere from one of their vines planted in 2014. It is 100% Chenin Blanc from cuttings they got from Domaine Huet and Clos Naudin. Certified Biodynamic. What makes this Chenin Blanc different from the others is the soil. Montbenault is planted on a plot rich in Rhyolite which is a very unique volcanic soil that occurs in some spots around Anjou. Rhyolite is considered a type of granitic magma, rare and frequently full of silica and quartz crystals. Native yeasts are used and fermentation occurs in stainless steel vats before being aged in used 500 liter barrels where malolactic fermentation is encouraged. Mimimal sulphur is the only addition (1-2g) and only at bottling. This is a lovely wine made in a slow and natural style that asks you take your time and with patience and a little air shows all it's wonderful distinctive umami, minerality and charm. Redolent of yellow fruit, elderflower and spice.