Benoit Courault Le Verger de l’Étang 2024

Benoit Courault is one of the Loire's most respected natural growers, farming organically and reviving older, low-impact methods, including the use of working animals in the vineyard. Le Verger de l'Étang blends Grolleau and Pineau d'Aunis, two traditional Loire grapes prized for their lightness and aromatic lift. They grow on the schist and clay soils of the region in a cool, mild climate, where a long, gentle ripening season keeps the alcohol low at twelve and a half percent and preserves the bright acidity and floral, peppery aromatics these varieties are known for. The wine is made naturally with native yeasts and little intervention, so the focus stays on fresh, unadorned fruit rather than oak or extraction. The colour is a bright, light ruby. The nose is vivid and youthful, led by fresh cherry and raspberry with a clear peppery spice from the Pineau d'Aunis and a floral, herbal edge. The palate is juicy and energetic, light in body with soft tannin and lively acidity carrying a clean, refreshing finish. Serve lightly chilled at thirteen to fifteen degrees with charcuterie, roast chicken or baked salmon.