Anjou, Loire, France

Oenologist:

Environmental Practice: Organic, Sustainable Agriculture

Château du Breuil, located in the Loire Valley, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Today, it focuses on organic farming methods to produce fine wines that express the region's terroir. Established in 1822, the estate has undergone various ownerships, including Madame Hamon and the Robin/Morgat family. In 2006, Mr. Petitbois and renowned sommelier David Vigan took over, emphasizing a commitment to quality.

The estate's 30 hectares of vineyards are primarily planted with Chenin Blanc, along with other grape varieties like Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon. Organic farming methods have been employed since 2015, promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing wine quality.Meticulous vineyard management and gentle winemaking techniques ensure the preservation of natural flavours and aromas. Château du Breuil produces a range of wines, including Anjou Blanc, Savennières, Coteaux du Layon, and red wines like Anjou Rouge.

In essence, Château du Breuil is a beacon of quality winemaking in the Loire Valley, blending tradition with modern practices to create exceptional wines that reflect the region's heritage and terroir.

Loire Valley’s finest!

  • Anjou Blanc Rochettes White Blend

    Winemaking Process: This wine is crafted from a blend of 80% Chenin, 10% Chardonnay, and 10% Sauvignon grapes. The vineyards grow in soils of green sandstone schist with purple passages on a schisto-sandstone subsoil, featuring green schist alterations. Pruning is done with physiological soft pruning, while meticulous manual disbudding and pruning ensure vineyard health. Managed in organic agriculture, soil maintenance operations prioritize precision and respect for microbial life. Phytosanitary protection relies on close observation of plants and high reactivity.

    Grape Harvest: The grapes are hand-picked into 20 kg open-worked boxes, rigorously sorted in the vineyard at the golden stage to ensure they are free from any rot.

    Vinification and Maturation: Following fractional pneumatic pressing, the core of the cuvees and the end of the presses are separated. Alcoholic and malolactic fermentation occur in stainless steel vats. The wine matures on lees for 6 months before bottling.

    Tasting Notes: This dry and fruity white wine presents a clear, brilliant hue with golden reflections. On the nose, delicate aromas of white flowers and peaches greet the senses. In the mouth, vibrant citrus fruits dance on the palate, offering a refreshing sensation. The wine is impeccably balanced, culminating in a finish with a subtle saline note that adds complexity and depth.

    Food and Wine Pairing: Ideal as an aperitif, this wine pairs seamlessly with seafood and white fish dishes. Its versatility makes it easy to match with a variety of cuisines.

    Service Temperature and Wine Conservation: Serve between 8-10°C to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas. This wine can be enjoyed now or aged for 2-3 years to further develop its character.

  • Anjou Blanc Frere Etienne AOP Chenin

    Winemaking Process: Clos du Frère Etienne 2020 PDO Anjou Blanc is exclusively crafted from 100% Chenin grapes. The vineyards thrive in soils of green sandstone shale with purple passages on a schisto-sandstone subsoil, situated on a south-facing plot overlooking the Château. Pruning is carefully managed with physiological soft pruning in short guyot to ensure low yields. Vineyard management follows organic agriculture practices, emphasizing precise soil maintenance and utmost respect for microbial life. Phytosanitary protection relies on close observation and proactive measures.

    Grape Harvest: The grapes are meticulously hand-picked into 20 kg open-worked boxes, undergoing rigorous sorting in the vineyard at the golden stage to ensure optimal quality and freedom from any rot.

    Vinification and Maturation: After split pneumatic pressing, the ends of the presses are spread out. Alcoholic and malolactic fermentations occur in 400L barrels. The wine matures on lees for an extended period of 24 months, followed by an additional 6 months of maturation in stainless steel vats before bottling.

    Tasting Notes: This wine presents itself as a dry, fruity, and full-bodied white, exuding a delightful richness. Dried fruit notes dominate, complemented by a pronounced mineral finish that adds depth and complexity to the palate.

    Food and Wine Pairing: Clos du Frère Etienne 2020 PDO Anjou Blanc pairs harmoniously with crustaceans, cooked fish, and white meats with cream sauces. It also complements cheeses such as St Nectaire and Epoisses. Serve at a temperature between 8-10°C to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas. This wine can be enjoyed now or cellared for 4-5 years to allow further development.

    Service Temperature and Wine Conservation: Enjoy this wine at a service temperature between 8-10°C to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas. It can be cellared for 4-5 years to allow further development and evolution of its character.

  • IGP Grolleau Noir

    Winemaking Process: Le Grolleau 2022 PGI Val de Loire Rouge is crafted solely from 100% Grolleau noir grapes. The vineyards are nurtured in soils of green sandstone schist with purple passages on a schisto-sandstone subsoil. Pruning involves physiological soft pruning in short guyot, accompanied by thorough disbudding and mechanical leaf removal. The vineyard management prioritizes precision and respect for microbial life, with phytosanitary protection based on close observation and rapid response.

    Grape Harvest: Mechanical harvesting takes place when the grapes achieve the desired phenolic and aromatic maturity, ensuring optimal quality and flavor expression.

    Vinification and Maturation: The winemaking journey begins with cold pre-fermentation maceration to unlock the aromatic potential. Traditional maceration follows for 28 days in stainless steel vats, with limited extraction through wine shedding at the onset of maceration and subsequent static infusion. The wine matures for 7 months following the run-off before bottling.

    Tasting Notes: Le Grolleau 2022 presents as a fleshy, fruity, and flavorful red wine, showcasing a deep ruby color. Aromas of spices, white pepper, and red fruits captivate the senses, promising a delightful tasting experience.

    Food and Wine Pairing: This wine is perfect for savoring as an aperitif alongside a board of cold meats or pairing with white meats during a barbecue. Its versatility makes it an excellent companion for various occasions and culinary delights.

    Service Temperature and Wine Conservation: Serve Le Grolleau 2022 at a temperature between 12-16°C to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas. Enjoy it now or cellar for 2-3 years to witness its evolution and development over time.

  • Anjou Rouge Cab Franc/ Cab Sav

    Winemaking Process: L’Anjou 2022 PDO Anjou Rouge embodies meticulous winemaking, comprising 80% Cabernet Franc and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Cultivated in soils of green sandstone schist with purple passages on a schisto-sandstone subsoil, the vines undergo physiological soft pruning in short and long guyot methods.

    Grape Harvest: Hand-picked in 20 kg crates at the pinnacle of phenolic and aromatic ripeness, the grapes are meticulously selected to ensure only the finest fruit is utilized in vinification.

    Vinification and Maturation: A cold pre-fermentation maceration optimizes the aromatic potential of the grapes before traditional maceration for 28 days in stainless steel vats. Limited extraction via wine shedding and static infusion ensures balanced flavor development. Following the run-off, the wine matures for 7 months before bottling.

    Tasting Notes: L’Anjou 2022 presents a deep, sustained color with brilliant glints, indicating its rich character. The nose exudes fresh aromas of ripe fruits, such as cherry and blackcurrant. On the palate, a refreshing mouthfeel is complemented by fine and delicate tannins, culminating in a harmonious tasting experience.

    Food and Wine Pairing: This versatile wine pairs excellently with roast poultry, pork, veal, charcuterie, and cheese. It also serves as an ideal companion for convivial gatherings with friends. Serve at a temperature of 14-16°C to fully appreciate its flavors. With proper storage, it can be enjoyed for 4-6 years, allowing for further development in the bottle.

  • Coteaux Du Layon Chenin

    Winemaking Process: Coteaux du Layon 2022 PDO Coteaux du Layon showcases the finesse of 100% Chenin grapes cultivated in soils rich in alterations of green to ochre sandstone schist, occasionally with purple hues and phtanites beds. Managed with meticulous care, the vineyard employs physiological soft pruning in short guyot to ensure optimal yields.

    Grape Harvest: The grapes are carefully handpicked through multiple passes, selecting only bunches affected by botrytis and beginning to wilt, ensuring the highest quality fruit for vinification.

    Vinification and Maturation: Following direct pneumatic pressing, the must undergoes a very long and gentle fermentation in stainless steel vats. Mutage, or fortification, is conducted in the cold with a moderate dose of SO2. The wine then matures for 6 months on fine lees, enhancing its complexity and texture.

    Tasting Notes: Coteaux du Layon 2022 reveals a sweet, fruity, and light character, characterized by a limpid color with golden hues. On the nose, enticing aromas of citrus fruit and pineapple captivate the senses. The palate experiences freshness, complemented by a delightful acidity and roundness, culminating in a harmonious tasting experience.

    Food and Wine Pairing: Best served chilled, this wine is perfect as an aperitif or paired with foie gras, blue-veined cheeses, and Asian cuisine. Its versatility allows for enjoyment with a variety of dishes, enhancing the dining experience. Serve at a temperature of 8-10 °C to fully appreciate its flavors. With proper storage, it can age gracefully for 15 years and beyond, offering continued enjoyment over time.