In the glass
Aroma: lemon, white peach, wet stone, white flower
Palate: citrus, saline texture, stone fruit, chalky finish
Amphora-fermented Chenin Blanc from organic schist parcels. Pure expression of terroir without oak influence; tense saline texture and chalky drive.
What it pairs with
-
Sushi and sashimi
Tense acidity and saline texture handle delicate raw fish without overpowering soy. -
Oysters with mignonette
Saline texture and shellfish brine align; chalky finish substitutes for shallot bite. -
Sea bass crudo
Tense mineral acidity lifts raw fish; lemon-zest aromatics echo a simple citrus dressing. -
Goat cheese tartlets
Loire chèvre meets the wine's chalky drive; saline finish handles the rind.
History
Amphite is Pithon-Paillé's amphora-fermented Chenin Blanc. The cuvée expresses pure terroir without oak influence and was added under the Massonnat ownership.
- 2014 — First vintage of Amphite released, fermented and aged in amphora
Facts
- Producer
- Domaine Pithon-Paillé (Jo Pithon)
- Grapes
- Chenin Blanc (100%)
- Classification
- Anjou AOC
- Oak
- Fermented and aged in clay amphora and tank, no oak, around 10 months
- ABV
- 13.0%
- Price
- EUR 30 to 50 at retail
- Drinking window
- 2-12 from vintage
- First vintage
- 2014
- Organic
- ORGANIC CERTIFIED
- Vegan
- Yes (no animal-derived fining)
Scores
- Vinous 91 (2020 vintage, reviewed 2023)
Frequently asked about Anjou Blanc Amphite
What does Pithon-Paillé Amphite taste like?
Lemon, white peach, wet stone and white flower on the nose; citrus, saline texture, stone fruit and chalky finish on the palate. Medium-bodied with high acidity and a long, mineral finish.
When should I drink Amphite?
Drink between 2 and 12 years from vintage. The amphora ageing preserves the wine's tense citrus drive and chalky lift; 2 to 3 years in bottle adds textural depth.
How is Amphite made?
Fermented and aged in clay amphora and tank, no oak, for around 10 months. The amphora ageing expresses pure Chenin Blanc terroir without oak influence.
Is Pithon-Paillé Amphite vegan?
Yes. The estate is organic-certified and the wines are produced without animal-derived fining agents.