The 2023 Arnaud Lambert “Les Parcelles” is a beautifully pure Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley, produced by one of Saumur’s most respected and influential growers. Arnaud Lambert established his eponymous domaine in 2017 following the merger of his family’s Domaine de Saint-Just and the renowned Château de Brézé vineyards, creating a benchmark estate celebrated for organic and biodynamic farming, meticulous vineyard work and terroir-driven wines.
“Les Parcelles” is sourced from a selection of small vineyard parcels around Saint-Cyr-en-Bourg and neighbouring Saumur sites, planted on sandy clay soils over the region’s famous tuffeau limestone. The wine is made from 100% Chenin Blanc, whole-bunch pressed and fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel before maturing on fine lees for around five months. The result is a wine that captures the freshness, minerality and purity that have made Lambert one of the Loire’s most admired producers.
The nose is vibrant and expressive, showing lime zest, green apple, pear and quince alongside white flowers, beeswax and crushed limestone. Subtle notes of linden blossom and wet stone add complexity, while the fruit remains bright and focused.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with lively acidity and impressive texture. Citrus, orchard fruit and saline mineral notes are supported by a chalky limestone backbone that gives the wine precision and energy. Despite its freshness, there is a lovely lees-derived creaminess and weight through the mid-palate, leading to a long, dry and refreshing finish. The 2023 vintage is especially appealing for its balance between immediate drinkability and classic Loire tension.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the best-value Chenin Blancs in the portfolio and a perfect introduction to the modern Loire style. Compared to Vouvray, it is drier and more mineral-driven; compared to white Burgundy, it offers similar texture and complexity with brighter acidity and remarkable freshness. Arnaud Lambert has become one of the benchmark names in Saumur, and Les Parcelles consistently overdelivers for its price point. The 2023 vintage is energetic, precise and highly versatile at the table. Drink now or cellar for 5–8+ years. Perfect with oysters, sashimi, goat’s cheese, roast chicken, shellfish or refined seafood cuisine.
