2024 Domaine du Petit Clocher Anjou Blanc

The Denis family, now in their fourth generation, has consistently wowed me with this stellar little Anjou. What is Anjou, you may ask? From a soil perspective, this is where things change dramatically from the limestone found in nearby Saumur and Bourgueil, shifting toward schist and basalt. For reds, Cabernet Franc dominates, with some Cabernet Sauvignon and Grolleau permitted, but for whites, Chenin Blanc is king. Those schist soils give the wines of Anjou a liveliness that makes them feel related to their neighbors, but just a little different. This particular bottling has been one of our stellar values in the category for several years now. It has also recently received some great recognition, earning 95 points and a Gold Medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards and ranking among the top Chenins in this year's competition. What was once my secret Chenin has seemingly broken through into the mainstream. The new Anjou Blanc showcases rich apple fruit with notes of pear and a touch of baking spice. A crisp minerality keeps the wine refreshing, while that classic Chenin character stays lively on the palate. This has always been one of my favorite value Direct Imports from the Loire for its character, sheer drinkability and accessible price point. The timing couldn't be better, either. This is a wine perfectly suited to fall flavors and a terrific alternative to Chardonnay.