Wines Anjou Coulée d'Anthenay - Chenin - 2020

Coulée d'Anthenay 2020 from the Anjou AOC is a pure Chenin Blanc, crafted as a dry white wine. The 2020 vintage, shaped by a favourable growing season with balanced ripening, results in a wine of both freshness and maturity. The vineyards benefit from the characteristic Anjou terroir — primarily schist, tuffeau limestone, and some clay-silica soils, which impart a distinct mineral backbone to the wine. Traditional vinification methods, often including gentle pressing and cool fermentation, are used to conserve the delicate aromatics and vibrant acidity typical of Chenin Blanc from the Loire.

The Anjou-Saumur subregion within the Loire Valley boasts a long and storied history of wine production, dating back to the Middle Ages. The Oceanic influence tempers summer heat, while the mosaic of soil types lends complexity to the wines. Anjou whites are renowned for their vivacity and their subtle interplay between fruit, floral notes, and a pronounced minerality. The local climate, with ample rainfall and mild temperatures, complements the slow, steady ripening of Chenin Blanc, allowing the grape to express nuances of orchard fruit, citrus, and occasional hints of honey and white flowers.

This Coulée d'Anthenay is versatile at the table. Its crisp acidity and subtle structure make it an ideal match for seafood, especially scallops or freshwater fish prepared with beurre blanc — a nod to local gastronomy. Goat’s cheese, particularly a fresh Crottin de Chavignol or Sainte-Maure, brings out the wine’s mineral streak. For a more substantial pairing, consider poultry dishes such as roast guinea fowl with apples, which will echo the apple and quince notes often found in Chenin from Anjou.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine chilled but not overly cold, ideally between 10 and 12°C. This temperature will highlight both its expressive aromatics and vibrant palate, ensuring a refreshing yet nuanced tasting experience. Decanting is typically unnecessary, but allowing the wine a few minutes in the glass before sipping will help it fully reveal its range of aromas.