Arnaud Lambert Brézé Clos Du Midi 2024

Arnaud Lambert farms this dry Chenin Blanc in the AOC Saumur, from the Clos du Midi at Breze, one of the Loire's most celebrated limestone sites. The estate took shape in 1996 from the union of the Domaine de Saint Just and the Chateau de Breze, and the vineyards are worked organically. Breze sits on tuffeau, the soft Loire limestone that drains well and reflects light, and this chalky subsoil is what gives Loire Chenin its taut acidity and stony minerality. The wine is fermented and aged entirely in stainless steel, with no oak, so the focus stays on fruit purity and the mineral signature of the site. Keeping the wine off oak preserves its bright acidity and lets the limestone character come through cleanly. It shows a pale lemon colour, with green apple, fresh pear and lemon on the nose over a light chamomile and white flower note. The palate is dry and precise, with a chalky, saline grip and a long mineral finish that is typical of the appellation. Serve chilled at 9 to 11 degrees. It suits white fish, shellfish and fresh goat cheese.