2021 Sebastian David 'Couple Goals' 1L

Region: Loire Valley + Ardeche < France

Grapes: Chenin, Chardonnay

Vineyard/Cellar Stats: Certified organic/biodynamic farming (EcoCert); 35-50 years old vines on limestone/clay soil; elevage in Nomblot eggs; bottled unfined/unfiltered with minimal So2; 12.5% ABV

Winemaker: Sebastien David

NEW VINTAGE!  15th generation winemaker, Sebastien David manages his 15-hectare estate in Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, where the David family has been making wine, always from Cabernet Franc, since 1634. They call him ‘Hurluberlu’, which roughly translates as “eccentric man who looks at stars to farm” – and Sebastien is that crazy man who follows biodynamic practices (many involving the moon) and works super naturally, with no additions (rarely even SO2), and no fining/filtering. 

Though primarily known for his Cab Francs, Sebastien's highly drinkable, skin-contact white blend is a lovely surprise.  He calls it “Couple Goals” to illustrate how well opposites (in this case, the hard-edged Chenin + voluptuous Chardonnay grapes) can get along with the right coaching.  This liter of pure French joy is made from Chenin Blanc that hails from Saumur and Chardonnay that is pressed and trucked in from the Ardeche. Combined, you get the best of both: texture, stone fruit, wax, low acid, tropical fruit, citrus and melon.  Bonus: it comes in the very generous liter bottle, making it the perfect crowd-pleasing white for gatherings and guests.