2017 Clos des Plantes (Olivier Lejeune), Poiesis Blanc VdF

Olivier Lejeune established Clos des Plantes in the Anjou region of the Loire Valley in 2017, taking over vineyard parcels on the Montbenault hill that had been neglected for years. This wine is made from Chenin Blanc, grown in shallow, schistous soils rich in quartz and volcanic rock. In the glass, it shows a textured, waxy profile with notes of stewed pear, beeswax, and a distinct mineral edge. The 2017 vintage, though marked by challenging spring frosts that limited yields, produced healthy fruit and provided the concentration found in this debut release. It is a balanced, energetic bottle that is ready to enjoy tonight but possesses the structure to hold in the cellar for further development.