Winery: Domaine Pascal Brunet
Region: Loire Valley
Locale: Étilly
Appellation: Chinon Blanc
Designation: AOC
Site: Estate vineyards; the vineyard dedicated to Chenin Blanc enjoys a significant calcareous component; limestone substrate.
Grapes: 100% Chenin Blanc, young vines.
Fermentation and Aging: Temperature controlled fermentation in stainless steel; racked to steel tanks and bottled the spring following the harvest.
Notes: Extremely limited; 2014 was Pascal’s first vintage of Blanc. Delicious and classic Chenin Blanc with racy acidity and about 2.5g of residual sugar - just enough to balance the acid. This is one of those "if you don’t like it, you’re just flat wrong" wines.
Pairing: Drink it with Boudin blanc (white sausage), calamari, all kinds of seafood and shellfish. Great with salads and omelettes or quiche. Fantastic with a sautéed fish and a squeeze of lemon. Try it with your favorite asian dishes - the slight residual sugar can help balance any heat in the dish. Grilled trout makes me want to shout.