Domaine Vigneau-Chevreau, Vouvray Petillant Brut NV
Appellation: Vouvray
Region: Loire
Country: France
Color: White
Varietal(s): Chenin Blanc
About The Producer
The Domaine, located in the heart of the Vouvray appellation, has grown with five generations, thus steadily expanding from 5 to 33 hectares. The Vigneau-Chevreau family has honored this tradition with the foresight to expand, modernize, and plan for future generations. The Vigneau-Chevreau’s were granted a 50-year lease to replant and farm the historical vineyard of Marmoutier Abbey, the cradle of Vouvray appellation wines. The 33 acres are located in 4 out of the 8 villages in the appellation. In 1995 the Domaine converted to very strict Biodynamic/Organic agriculture. They are one of two such producers in all of Vouvray. The aging of their wines takes place in their deep limestone cave.Terroir & Vineyard Practices:
The Vigneau-Chevreau's farm according to biodynamic methods, which strictly forbids the use of chemicals of any kind. The entire Domaine is located within Vouvray, which has clayish limestone or clayish siliceous ("Silex"). The first layer ("aubuis") sits directly on the limestone plateau, which is called "tuffeau" (limestone). The second layer ("perruches") is composed of various flints, which are favorable elements for the growth of the vines. The wines of the estate benefit from this soil diversity. The vineyards face south on the main slopes of the Vouvray hills, allowing maximum sunshine right down to the Loire.Tasting Notes
Golden in color, the Vourvray Pétillant’s gentle mouse, transforms into delicate apple and quince flavors that end with a touch of citrus-honey. Made from 100% Chenin Blanc this easy and elegant dry wine is perfect as an aperitif. Light little bubbles that tickle the nose. Biodynamic.Vinification
This wine undergoes natural yeast fermentation. The dosage is cane sugar and wine, with a secondary fermentation. It rests 2-years in the cave prior to release. Approximately 3.5 bars of pressure.Press
- 94 points - Decanter: "Lovely golden yellow in colour, with the aromas intensely suggesting wet wool, hazlenuts and honeyed apples. In the mouth there's an oily, viscous quality; the bubbles are very light, almost not there. Very vinous, with high, laser sharp acid. It's in some ways savoury and in other ways full of sweet baked apples, peaches and apple pie. A pleasant touch of bitter walnut skin tickles the finish. The alcohol is a little noticeable but the richness and intensity keep it in balance. Amazing value for money! Drink 2021-2028."- Decanter
- 90 points - Wine Enthusiast: "Nutty and fruity at the same time, this pear-flavored wine with its hint of honey is dry while also soft. It offers intriguing balance between roundness and dryness, a refreshing style that will make a fine aperitif."- Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast