Symphony to Chenin Blanc: Delicious Balade en Chenin 2023 by Le Clos Galerne from Anjou in the Loire Valley: perfect match for scallops and other seafood: case of six bottles delivered

This Balade en Chenin is a symphony to the Chenin grape—complex, bright, rounded a true expression of both the grape and its native Loire Valley. The Tasting Panel are ‘absolute fans’. Incredibly good on its own, this versatile wine is delightful with freshly grilled seafood—and if you are about to lunch or dine on scallops, it is the perfect match!

Le Clos Galerne is a family affair, producing great terroir-driven wine with brilliant minerality and expression. Having trained as oenologists and at Château d’Esclans, Cédric Bourez and his wife Myrtille searched for years to find the right domain and in 2018 fell in love with Anjou—more precisely, the mediaeval village of Rochefort-sur-Loire, where they purchased a small estate focused on Chenin Blanc from the finest old vine plantings across distinct and varied terroirs facing the Layon River.

Balade en Chenin vines average about 25 years. Fruit is hand harvested and fermented using indigenous yeasts. Organically farmed from day one, full certification awarded in 2021, vinification is simple and without intervention. Fermentations start naturally with indigenous yeast. The Chenin spends 11 months on lees.

The 2023 Balade is a delicate yellow colour with hues of green. On the nose, floral notes of elderflower and jasmine are accompanied by fresh green apple. With its bright acidity, a complex mix of yellow fruits and confit citrus fruits, the wine epitomises the Chenin grape. The mouthfeel is well structured and persistent, finishing with a beautiful salinity. Delicious now, it will drink beautifully until 2028.

Food pairing: fabulous as an aperitif, also enjoy with buttery white fish, oily fish and shellfish (prawns, crab and crayfish). It is superb with scallops including Asian style dishes including soy sauce.

Anjou Blanc controlée. 13.5% vol. Case of six bottles.

Non Members £169. CCUK Members £119 including UK mainland delivery.

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