Clau de Nell Chenin Blanc, ‘Les Fontinelles’ 2021

Description

The nose of the 2021 Chenin blanc from Clau de Nell is picture-book oxidised yellow pear, some wet wool, beeswax and lots of quince. Fuelled by youthful fruit, the aromas are balanced yet typical of the variety, the ageing in used wood is recognisable but by no means dominant. There are also clear mineral notes and a good flake of salted butter on the fresh popcorn. Balanced and calm, it flows calmly into the goblet of the inclined drinker. The juvenile, juicy fruit is driven by the shimmering acidity that stretches across the palate like an electric eel. In a perfect balance of extract, maturity, fruit and tannin, the yellow fruit oscillates from saline impressions to a tannic contour at the edge of the tongue and back again. A highly energetic, vital wine with good vibration and enormous potential for enjoyment. 13% ABV