Champalou

Very pale yellow with golden highlights and aromas of apple, citrus with chalky mineral notes welcome ripe and round flavors of apple, apricot, mango with a touch of lime, and herbal tea. It has a bit of sweetness, but it perfectly balances Chenin Blanc’s steely acidity so the overall effect is ripe, smooth and delectable. It will be a charming partner for Butternut squash soup or roasted pork tenderloin. Vignerons Catherine and Didier Champalou, who come from winemaking families, began making their wines in 1983. Their daughter, Céline, recently joined the winemaking team.

Catherine and Didier Champalou both came from vigneron families and began this domaine in 1983. They farm 21 hectares of vineyards, embracing some organic and biodynamic practices. This, their flagship, is a dry chenin from 35 year old vines on clay and limestone, fermented in stainless, and with 11 months on lees. Vouvray's honeyed generosity is at the fore, with white flowers, quince, fragrant lemon blossom across a lightly waxen palate, trailing off into stony spice. Juicy and weighted, but with chenin's inherent acidity to brighten and carry through the finish. Drinking very smartly now.