CEP BY CEP ANJOU BLANC 2023

Style: Rocks & Minerals

For those new to this producer, the wines come from the Anjou-based, micro-négoce started by Philippe Germain with his brother, Thierry Germain (of Roches Neuves fame) acting as a consultant. Thierry is no longer involved with the project, though the wines have not missed a beat. There are three wines in the range. The Chenin Blanc comes from 100% hand-harvested fruit which was organically grown in Rochefort-sur-Loire, just south of the river and opposite Savennières. Unlike the Germain vineyards in Saumur where limestone dominates, the vineyards of western Anjou are influenced by the schist-rich, volcanic soils of the Massif Armoricain. It¿s this type of rock that imparts a pungent, stony bite to the dry Chenin of the area. The corresponding red is 100% Cabernet Franc, hand-harvested from vines rooted in gravelly, shale soils in western Anjou. The idea here is for a fun, lively, no-nonsense 'vin de soif', made to be enjoyed young while vibrant and fresh. BIBENDUM IMPORTER

This Chenin value comes from 100% hand-harvested fruit organically grown in the schist-rich, volcanic soils of Rochefort-sur-Loire, just south of the river and opposite Savennières. The wine was vinified in a mixture of tank and two- to four-year-old, 400-litre casks. It is a cooler, leaner, more mineral release than last year, with chalk, stones and smoky reduction leading the charge and ripe citrus and honeysuckle in powerful support. It¿s invigoratingly dry, stony and refreshing, with plenty of flesh, crunch and zip on the lengthy close. This is on the money.  

Region: Loire Valley, FRANCE

Variety: Chenin Blanc

ABV: 13.5%

Liquor Act 2007. It is against the law to sell or supply alcohol to, or to obtain alcohol on behalf of a person under the age of 18 years. Lic No. LIQP770016424

*We endeavour to ensure the correct vintage is displayed, however some variations may occur in store and for delivered bottles.