Thierry Germain's Clos du Moulin 2017 is a remarkable biodynamic white wine from the Saumur appellation, located within the Anjou-Saumur subregion of the Loire Valley. Crafted predominantly from Chenin Blanc, the signature grape variety of the area, this cuvée exemplifies meticulous vineyard management. The 2017 vintage benefited from a relatively cool growing season, enhancing the vibrancy and minerality typical of Saumur whites. The wine is vinified with minimal intervention to express the authenticity of the terroir, often fermented and matured in oak or stainless steel to accentuate its fresh, elegant profile. Expect a bouquet marked by white flowers, ripe pear, and a subtle flinty character, culminating in a crisp, persistent finish.
Saumur sits at the heart of the Loire Valley, a renowned region celebrated for its diverse terroirs and long vinicultural history dating back to the Roman era. The climate here is temperate with continental influences, ensuring slow, gradual ripening and high-quality acidity in the grapes. The distinctive soils, composed of tuffeau – a porous limestone – confer a marked minerality and finesse to the wines, which is particularly prized in whites made from Chenin Blanc. The legacy of organic and biodynamic practices runs deep in this region, with producers like Thierry Germain at the forefront, shaping Saumur’s contemporary reputation for expressive, terroir-driven wines.
This wine’s precise acidity and textural depth make it an excellent match for a variety of dishes. Try it alongside seafood, such as pan-seared scallops or grilled prawns, which will echo the wine’s freshness. Poultry in creamy sauce or a classic local goat cheese, such as Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, will also harmonise beautifully. For a festive table, roast chicken with wild mushrooms or Loire river fish, like pike prepared with beurre blanc, are traditional, elegant choices.
To experience Clos du Moulin 2017 at its best, serve lightly chilled, ideally between 10 and 12°C. Decanting for 30 minutes can help fully reveal its nuanced aromatics. Enjoy now, or cellar for a few more years to allow greater complexity to emerge.
