2014 Domaine Richou, Savennieres, La Bigottiere, Loire Valley, France.
This is a lovely and interesting Chenin Blanc from Domaine Richou, grown on schist in Savennieres it shows fine detail, spice and inner depth, this is why this grape is being rediscovered and cherished. Beautifully terroir driven and pure in varietal character the Richou Savennieres leads with salty and stony notes with light peach and vibrant citrus fruits along with a core that is very steely and lean, though the texture is smooth, dense and mouth filling. The acidity is ever present, but not aggressive or excessive in this wonder Chenin, Richou are all organic, going for biodynamic in the future maybe, and there is plenty of energy and life in this well crafted and clear expression. Flinty notes, tropical essences and a touch of quince and the impression of honeycomb come through with air adding depth to this Richou, this is wine to enjoy young with food, though I imagine it will age well too, it has the structure no question. This dry and racy medium bodied white was a happy surprise, I’d not had the wine or tasted anything from this Domaine prior and it was a thrill to taste this one and hope to try more.
($35 Est.) 93 Points, grapelive
