I tasted Pax Mahle's 2025 Helios Chenin Blanc last week, and while I expected to like it, I LOVED it.
This is one of those white wines that really pleases the palate. Packed with classic Chenin fruit matched with vibrant and refreshing acidity and surprising complexity, this earned its 93 point rating from Vinous Media and then some!
Pax Mahle is one of California's most talented vignerons. He's well-connected with many of the top growers in the state, allowing him to source grapes from prime sites. His Helios Chenin Blanc is sourced from two organically farmed sites: the warmer Lyman Ranch (Amador County) provides generous orchard fruit while the Marine Terraces Vineyard (Santa Cruz Mountains) adds bright citrus acidity and a distinct mineral edge.
The result is a beautifully balanced wine that is reminiscent of a really good dry Vouvray. Flowing with notes of lemongrass, green pear, green apple, stone fruit, and wet stone, this is what I like to call a "Goldilocks Wine." It's broad enough for Chardonnay drinkers, crisp enough for Sauvignon Blanc fans, and nuanced enough to satisfy serious Chenin lovers.
If you need another opinion, here's what Vinous Media had to say. "The 2025 Chenin Blanc Helios is insanely beautiful. Citrus peel, sweet flowers, mint, tangerine, oil and slate all soar from the glass. Most of the Helios will likely end up in restaurants. Readers who can find it should not hesitate."
If you're already a Chenin Blanc fan, trust me and buy a solid six-pack. If you're new to the variety, this is a wonderful place to start. Pair with spicy Thai dishes or chill it down for porch sipping purposes.
Cheers and keep on drinking the good stuff in the AVL!
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville
