Viniou Reviews
The 2020 Cuvée Clos de Midi Blanc from Château Arnaud Lambert is a striking expression of the Saumur appellation in the Anjou-Saumur subregion of the Loire Valley. This wine is largely crafted from the Chenin Blanc grape, which is renowned for its versatility and ability to reflect terroir. The 2020 vintage was marked by favourable weather conditions, with a warm growing season that contributed to an excellent balance between acidity and ripe fruit flavours. The terroir of Saumur is noted for its limestone-rich soils, which lend a striking minerality to the wine, and the vinification process focused on highlighting this distinctive characteristic by retaining the crisp natural acidity and aromatic complexity typical of Chenin Blanc.
The Loire Valley is one of France's most diverse and storied wine regions, known for its wide variety of wine styles and exceptional natural beauty. Saumur's proximity to the Loire River contributes to a temperate climate that provides ideal conditions for growing both white and red grape varieties. The area's chalky, tuffeau stone soils are particularly well-suited for producing expressive white wines like this one.
Given the bright and zesty nature of the Cuvée Clos de Midi, it pairs beautifully with seafood dishes such as grilled scallops or a delicate white fish meunière. For a regional pairing, consider serving it with rillettes de poisson or goat cheese from the nearby Loire region, as the wine’s acidity and minerality will complement the creaminess of the cheese superbly.
For the best tasting experience, this Saumur Blanc should be served chilled, at a temperature of between 10-12°C. This allows the wine’s fresh fruit notes and mineral nuances to shine, showcasing its elegant structure and refreshing acidity. Enjoying the wine at this temperature will highlight the vibrant character that makes Loire Valley wines so cherished.
