Clément Baraut Les Herbes Folles

Right then Clement, what do you have to say for yourself? He believes that plants have a rich language of communication and tell the switched on and  plugged in vigneron what they need. Clement arrived in the Loire in the late 80s bringing with him his knowledge of biodynamics and his will to remove chemicals and artificial processes in the vineyard. Nicknamed the “Druid” because of his affinity to the living vines, he succeeded in creating the first quality dry wines in the area, the area being Anjou largely and Savennieres specifically, southwest of Angers, with vineyards planted upon the banks of the Loire and its shallow sandstone schists and volcanic rock and sand seams. Clement eschews many contemporary techniques used in the vineyards in favour of a wild vine left to grow naturally; no pruning, no trimming and no removing of new springtime shoots. His vines grow as they like. Uncultivated. Subsequently, Clement’s wines are purer, more focused with a certain delicateness to them, lower in alcohol and much more honest than many others found in the region. Because of his non factory approach, yields are low and his wines are rare yet much sought after. Les Herbes Folles is a blend of Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Grolleau Gris (40, 40, 20), organic, biodynamic, wild yeasts, hand picked, have seen oak and remain unfined and unfiltered. Grapefruit and lime with a sweet waxiness and leafy quality. Tingling acidity and refreshes the parts others cannot reach. Far superior to Heineken. Oh yes, far superior.