Clos de l'Écotard Saumur Blanc Les Pentes 2020

Clos de l'Écotard Saumur Blanc Les Pentes is an organic Chenin Blanc from the steepest, highest part of the Écotard vineyard, fermented in a single foudre.

Les Pentes means the slopes, and in this case the name refers to the top and steepest section of the organically farmed Écotard vineyard in Saumur. The vines root straight into limestone, which is plain to see in the rocky outcrops at the north-eastern corner of the clos, and the parcel is ploughed by the domaine's own draught horse, Fleur. Saumur's Turonian chalk is what gives Chenin Blanc here its combination of flesh and cut, and a single steep parcel like this concentrates that character. The fruit was whole-bunch pressed and fermented naturally in one Stockinger foudre, an élevage that adds breadth without oak flavour. The result is elegant but mouthcoating, with creamy citrus and floral fleshiness balanced by a glade of acidity and a saline flourish.

Drinking well now with five to eight years ahead; serve at 10–12°C with roast chicken, grilled fish or a mild washed-rind cheese.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.