Testalonga El Bandito 'Skin' Chenin Blanc '22

This skin-contact Chenin Blanc hits with layers of aromas —bold, vibrant, and a little wild. Think punchy citrus, a kick of preserved lemon, and that warm, cooked apricot vibe. There’s a whisper of white flowers weaving through, keeping it balanced but never soft. A little menthol comes through on the finish. Complex, alive, and unapologetically full of character. Inspired by a skin-macerated Vermentino from Antonio Perrino during a trip to Italy. The wine has come a long way and each year provides with new flavors. They have toned down on the extraction and have now stopped experimenting as much as they used to, finding the wine’s sweet spot in terms of skin contact and the balance of flavors they’re looking for. Overall, they’ve reduced the length of time they leave the wines on the skin as the goal here is to find elegance and focus within this particular style. James Suckling — 94 “Aromas of orange blossoms, baked apricots, and marigolds followed by saffron, crushed cinnamon sticks, and a touch of hay. Medium-bodied, soft acidity with underlying phenolic texture that gives frame and an edge to it. Zesty and flavorful wine showcasing beautiful harmony and balance. Seductive finish, too. Drink or hold.” – James Suckling The WineMag — 94 “Kept on the skins for 12 days. Complex aromatics of honey, potpourri, ginger and some waxy character as well as hints of peach, nectarine and dried herbs. The palate is dense and thick textured but equally possesses great freshness, the finish nicely dry.” – Christian Eedes