ABOUT: Domaine de la Roche Bleue is nested in Jasnieres, an itty bitty area known for excellent Chenin Blanc vines in the middle of the Coteaux du Loir. Bleue was founded in the late aughts by Sebastien Cornille who brought organic and biodynamic viticulture to his hectares and makes some outstanding wine. Once a region known for amazing white wine, Jasnieres went through a bit of a funk until recent times when talented winemakers began resurrecting the beautifully situated south facing slopes. A wild variety of soil types and a cool climate make for complex, mineral-driven, DRY white wines of real finesse. Sebastien approaches winemaking as you might guess, native yeasts are used for fermentation, neutral barrels, no fining or filtration, and malolactic fermentation isn’t blocked; if it happens it happens. A very common headset of our favorite Loire winemakers. These wines are available in minuscule quantities, best gets it while you can. TASTE: The Clos des Molieres is made from 30+ year old Chenin Blanc vines stuck into a clay crust on limestone filling. The yields are low and the wine is aged for a few years in barrel before going into a bottle. The acidity is to behold, nervy and mouthwatering, with aromas and flavors of almonds, lemons, limes, apricots, peaches and a salty edge. Highly complex and a finish that won’t quit. PAIR: Barbecue tofu sandwich with pickled onions, gordita stuffed with roasted vegetables, tempura vegetables, oven roasted dill potatoes, Bruschetta with goats cheese, and a vegetable stuffed Banh Xeo.
