Tetes Blanche, Les Tetes NV

In 2012 Nicolas and Philippe, childhood friends, purchased the Hauts-Baigneux vineyards in Azay-le-Rideau, just east of the much more renown Chinon. Inspired by stories from some older locals of how fine the Chenin was here before the second world war, due to its mixture of soils, particularly the wealth of flint. At the time of purchasing the vines the region was most famous for Gamay- and Grolleau-based wines. In the winery fermentation is made in concrete tanks and open submersed concrete vats. From there the wines move into steel, fibreglass or oak depending on the cuvee. Being in the Loire though, every vintage can be a challenge, 70% was lost in 2017. So to supplement they have their negoce label Les Tètes. Made from fruit sourced outside the domain itself, Nicolas, Philippe, Baptiste and Vivien (University friends), work with vignerons who follow the same mentality, such a Domaine Plageoles. These are meant to be and are, very high quality every day wine.