Domaine Gigou Clos St. Jacques 2022 Jasnières (75cl, 13.5%)

This is an organic 2022 Jasnières from Domaine Gigou, made entirely from Chenin Blanc. The vines average around 70 years of age and grow on silex soils, the flinty ground that gives the wine its mineral character. Jasnières is a small appellation on the Loir, about an hour south of Le Mans. The wine is fermented in barrel, then aged in a mix of large foudres and smaller oak barrels. The oak adds texture and a gentle smoky character without making the wine heavily oaked. Residual sugar is around 4g/l, which adds weight rather than sweetness. The nose shows ripe apple and orchard fruit with smoke, mineral notes and a hint of citrus. The palate is generous and textured, with fresh acidity, and the finish is long and lightly smoky.