Gasnier Chinon Blanc Le Clos de la Cure 2019

Fabien Gasnier is doing some of the most exciting work in Chinon right now, pushing his family’s estate (which has been biodynamic since 2000) into a realm of precision that is rare for the region.

The 2019 Le Clos de la Cure comes from a specific, stone-walled parcel characterized by its heavy clay and limestone (tuffeau) soils. In a warm, generous vintage like 2019, this terroir is essential; it provides a cooling mineral backbone that keeps the wine’s natural richness in perfect check.

It’s textured and expansive, offering up notes of orchard fruit, quince, and honeyed citrus, but it’s all driven by a laser-like beam of acidity. There is a weight and a seriousness here that punches far above its price point, finishing with that classic Loire salinity that makes you reach for a second glass.