Carette, Robin 2024 Les Salines Chenin

Les Salines comes from Robin's younger Chenin Blanc vines, aged 5-30 years old and planted on sandstone and gravel soils in Bonnezeaux, though the 2024 includes some grapes from his older vines (60-90y/o) as well since he did not bottle his top Chenin "Ernestine" in 2024. The wine is racked once after fermentation and aged two thirds in barrels and one third in stainless steel tanks for 7 months before being blended in March and bottled in April. It's a linear and chiseled style with some flinty reduction on the nose, followed by crystalline fruit and a long, mineral finish. The 2024 shows great balance and freshness with precise acidity and beautiful texture. It's a shining example of dry Anjou Chenin that showcases the Bonnezeaux terroir, full of energy and ready to drink now but with enough density to age if you feel inclined to stash some away.