Self Isolation : Day # 35

2018 Arnaud Lambert ‘Clos de Midi’ Chenin Blanc

Arnaud Lambert has successfully integrated the vineyards he oversees on the re-discovered terroir of Brézé into the domaine he inherited from his father. The Clos de Midi is what the French refer to as a lieu dit, or a named parcel. The vines that go into this bottling are rooted in the center section of a gentle slope below the Château de Brézé, hence the name ‘Clos de Midi’ (‘midi’ roughly translating to ‘middle’). This parcel is home to stunning Chenin Blanc vines that, along with Arnaud’s deft guidance, become something magical. At one time the wines from Brézé were traded on par with the luxurious sweet wines of the famed Château d’Yquem and other top French wines. After more than fifty years of chemical faming and the exclusion from the original A.O.P. boundaries, these one-famous vineyards are being revitalized, both in terms of farming and recognition.  

Laser focused, with mouthwatering acidity and penetrating aromas of exotic citrus, ripe melon, and herbs. The electric intensity makes the palate come alive; its as if your tongue is being struck by a thousand little lighting bolts of flavor. A tightly wound wine that needs time to open up, it rewards patience. Another bottle of liquid proof the Chenin Blancs of the Loire Valley offer tremendous value for lovers of vibrant, complex white wines. Even better if you’re open to residual sugar and bubbles!