Wines Anjou Domaine La Reniere - Chenin - 2020

Domaine La Reniere's Cuvée Chenin 2020 from the Anjou AOC presents itself as a fine example of pure Chenin Blanc crafted in the Loire Valley tradition. This dry white wine, sourced from the distinctive terroirs of Anjou, expresses the varietal’s renowned vibrancy and complexity. The 2020 vintage in Anjou was marked by a warm growing season, which has favoured ripe, expressive fruit and a harmonious balance between freshness and texture. Vinification is typically carried out with careful temperature control to preserve the aromatic intensity and minerality for which Chenin Blanc is celebrated, sometimes allowing for brief lees ageing to enhance mouthfeel and subtle complexity.

The Loire Valley, stretching along the River Loire in western France, is renowned as the “Garden of France”. Anjou, specifically, benefits from a temperate oceanic climate tempered by the Loire’s proximity, fostering a long, steady ripening period ideal for Chenin Blanc. The soils are typically schist, slate, and limestone, which impart a distinctive minerality and vivacity. The region’s winemaking history is rich, dating back to the Middle Ages, with vineyards producing wines equally noted for their precision and versatility.

With its lively acidity and layers of citrus, green apple, and subtle white flowers, this Anjou Chenin pairs beautifully with goats’ cheeses such as the local Selles-sur-Cher or Valençay, whose creamy, tangy notes mirror and complement the wine’s zesty backbone. Seafood, particularly shellfish or river fish like pike-perch, also finds harmony here, as do white meats in light cream sauces. For a regional touch, consider rillettes de poisson or a classic tarte fine aux légumes.

For optimum enjoyment, serve Domaine La Reniere’s Cuvée Chenin 2020 chilled but not ice-cold—between 8 and 10°C. This allows its expressive aromatics and lively minerality to shine. A brief decanting may benefit the wine if enjoyed young, accentuating its delicate florals and softening the initial crisp acidity.