Marie Thibault farms a 3.5 HA parcel of white clay and silex in Azay-le-Rideau, a town midway between Tours and Chinon in the Touraine appellation. She makes two pét-nats: one from Chenin, and this one, which is 100 percent old-vine Gamay. Farming is organic. The grapes were hand harvested and fermented with ambient yeasts. It’s fully dry.
The robe is deep tourmaline pink and animated by a fine, persistent bead. The scent is a bracing commingling of beach rose, sea air, and mint, while the palate fizzes in flavors of rhubarb, strawberry, and orange peel. There is no leesy toastiness or weight to this wine; it’s all about uncomplicated, direct refreshment.
2018 Marie Thibault La Roue qui Tourne Rosé Pétillant Naturel Vin de France
12% abv | About $25; imported by Selection Massale
