Vin de France Chenin Blanc La Minée Haute 2022 Château de Bonnezeaux

What kind of wine is it

Chenin Blanc La Minée Haute from Château de Bonnezeaux is a dry white wine from the Loire Valley, made from Chenin Blanc grapes. The style is taut and precise, with a well-defined freshness, balanced structure, and a clear mineral imprint. Spontaneous fermentation and aging in French oak add depth without weighing down the palate. It shows versatility, making it suitable both at the table and after a period of bottle aging.

Where does it come from

The grapes come from the La Minée Haute parcel, at the foot of a scarcely inhabited valley in the Loire Valley. The vineyard benefits from a temperate climate with strong temperature variations and good air circulation, factors that enhance acidity and aromatic precision. The schist and gravel soils provide excellent drainage and mineral richness, while certified organic management protects the local biodiversity and identity.

How is it produced

Harvesting aims to obtain healthy, ripe grapes, balancing the typical concentration and freshness of Chenin Blanc. In the cellar, spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts enhances the vineyard's character. About twelve months of aging in French oak barrels allows for controlled development, with no filtration or added sulfites, preserving integrity and complexity. This choice requires careful storage.

Tasting notes

It appears intense straw yellow with golden reflections. On the nose, there are notes of ripe yellow-fleshed fruit, white flowers, and honey, with mineral hints reminiscent of schist soils. On the palate, it is dry and medium-bodied, with lively acidity and pronounced minerality. The texture is orderly, persistence is long, with a clean and savory finish.

Food pairings

It pairs well with fish dishes and shellfish, where the acidity and sapidity enhance the sweetness of the meat. Excellent with soft cheeses that are not overly aged, maintaining balance without overpowering the lactic notes. Locally, it accompanies a seafood platter or sandre au beurre blanc, and works well with dishes featuring light sauces and delicate cooking methods.

When to serve it

Ideal when you're looking for a precise dry white, suitable from aperitif through to a full seafood meal. The recommended serving temperature is between 10 and 12 °C. A brief decanting helps express the aromatic components and integrate the oak. Thanks to its acidity and oak aging, it can remain in the cellar for several years, maintaining its definition and complexity if kept away from light and heat.