I've never found a vintage of this wine I didn't like. It's one of those bottles that brings a smile to my face, regardless. Organic and hand-harvested, it's tremendous value at £13. Today, the first day of British Summer Time, seemed as good a day as any to try a new vintage.

Pale, silver with edges of green.

Focused nose of waxed lime peel and barley grist. Quite intense. Barest sense of flint at the end.

Incredibly youthful. Tightly wound, integrated citrus zing of lime and lemon peel wrapped up with bees wax and the slightest of honey-nut notes. It fills the mouth with an almost squeaky juiciness and as the finish starts comes a faint hint of pear drop. Crazy young and intense, you squint as you taste it, but in a great way. I don't understand how some people can disparage Loire Chenin Blanc when wines like this are so utterly brilliant. This would easily beat a wine twice its price. With age, those honey and nut notes will develop while the citrus will pick up roasted character. Drink now and cellar too.

*****

Tasted at Shorehead 25/3/2012