2005 Les Noels de Montbenault

Said to come from distinctly different volcanic schiste, the Leroy 2005 Anjou Sec Les Noels de Montbenault displays an alluring and intense nose of blood orange, quince, marzipan, rowan, and buddleia, with hints of nutmeg and wood smoke. Lush, luscious, and expansive in the mouth yet suffused with wet stone, smoke, salt and chalk, this impeccably-pure Chenin finishes with fabulous grip and persistence of fruit and mineral. Interestingly, though, this held up less well over a couple of days from the open bottle than did the Clos des Rouliers. Lacking any additional experience with this wine, I am inclined to sin on the side of caution and advise enjoying it over the next 3-5 years. Importer: Weygandt-Metzler, Unionville, PA; tel. (610) 486-0800