2018 Thomas Batardière Mama Rosé

Region: Anjou < Loire Valley < France

Grapes: Chenin Blanc, Grolleau, Cab Franc

Vineyard/Cellar Stats: Demeter certified biodynamic, 15-60 year-old vines, soils of red sand and quartz gravel on schist; Grolleau + Cab Franc pressed after one day of maceration and blended with the Chenin after fermentation in stainless steel, then the wine rests on lees for several months; bottled unfined/unfiltered with zero added So2; 12% ABV

Winemaker: Thomas Batardière

A former filmmaker and sommelier, and now winemaker, Thomas Batardière is already on his third career at the young age of 38. After tasting this wine, it seems pretty obvious that he has found his true calling. This wine is so pure, so expressive, so stand-out in every way – and Thomas’ philosophy partially explains why. A true believer in biodynamics, he feels most of his work is done in the vines. After this, the grapes just need gentle guidance in the cellar to reach their full potential. As he explains, “Biodynamics brings life to the plant, the parcel, and the entire domaine, leaving it more rich and complex. And that shows in the wines. A living wine is better expressed and with a greater variety.”

This is Thomas' first rosé, and he wanted to make one with an interesting mouthfeel, so he harvested the Cab Franc early for tension, and the Grolleau late for aromatics.   And wow, did he knock it out of the park.  This pale pink wine is is super aromatic, with bursts of peppery red fruit from the red grapes, while the Chenin brings weight and texture.  No mindless rosé or pink palate fatigue here, this is a serious, elegant wine that holds your interest and effortlessly carries through from pool to aperitif to dinner.  One of our favorite rosé picks of the season!