Foxen Chenin Blanc (75cl, 13.8%)

Foxen Chenin Blanc is a dry, old-vine white wine from Santa Maria Valley, California. The fruit comes exclusively from the Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard, planted in 1966. Fermentation takes place in equal parts stainless steel and neutral puncheons, and ageing occurs in 500-litre neutral oak barrels. The nose shows white flowers, orange zest, lemon oil, ripe pear, paraffin and a chalky mineral lift. The palate is brisk, with green apple, blanched almond, peach, minerality, papaya, white grapefruit zest and kumquat rind over a weighty, almost waxy texture. The finish is long and nervy, with warm slate, chamomile, white tea and lemon pith.