Upon pouring, the wine's deep yellow hue hints at its complexity. The bouquet is unmistakably Chenin Blanc, with intoxicating aromas of honeysuckle, yellow apple, lemon curd, and beeswax. On the palate, it truly dazzles—a lush, succulent experience balanced by a nervy acidity that electrifies the senses.
Tucked just southwest of Angers in the Loire Valley, the Savennières village graces the Loire River banks. Here, three 'coulées'—small valleys—descend from the hillsides, offering an ideal southeastern aspect for the cherished Chenin Blanc vines. This appellation is a gem, covering a mere 100 hectares, with even smaller enclaves like La Coulée de Serrant and La Roche-aux-Moines, the birthplace of our featured wine.
The region's rocky schist soils are a defining characteristic, challenging the vines to delve deep for essential nutrients. This rigorous environment, optimal sunlight exposure and the river's moderating influence, fosters conditions perfect for developing noble rot. This, in turn, enhances both the sugar and phenolic intensity in the grapes. The naturally high acidity and rich texture of Chenin Blanc provide the ideal canvas for this unique terroir to shine.
Chenin Blanc is a remarkable white grape variety that has its roots in France’s Loire Valley, where it has been cultivated since at least the 9th century. Known originally as "Pineau de la Loire," this grape has long been a cornerstone of winemaking in the region, particularly flourishing in areas like Anjou and Touraine, where the soils and climates are ideal for its growth.
What makes Chenin Blanc special is its incredible versatility. It’s a grape that can produce a wide array of wine styles, ranging from crisp, dry whites to sweet dessert wines, and even sparkling wines. Its naturally high acidity is key to its character, providing a lively, refreshing quality that persists across different styles.
Chenin Blanc didn’t stay confined to France; it’s found a second home in South Africa, where it’s often referred to as "Steen." In South Africa, Chenin Blanc has become the most widely planted grape, celebrated for its ability to craft wines that are just as diverse as those from the Loire, from zesty and dry to rich and honeyed.
The grape’s ability to adapt and express the unique characteristics of the land it’s grown in, coupled with its deep historical roots, makes Chenin Blanc one of the most beloved and versatile grapes in the world of wine.
The 2022 vintage in the Loire Valley was defined by extreme heat and drought, creating both challenges and opportunities for Chenin Blanc. An early start to the growing season, followed by one of the hottest summers on record, led to accelerated ripening and smaller yields. However, the deep-rooted Chenin Blanc vines managed to withstand the stress, resulting in grapes with concentrated flavors and preserved acidity.
Wines from this vintage are expected to be ripe and rich, yet balanced by the grape's natural freshness. Despite the challenges, 2022 produced Chenin Blancs that showcase the variety's resilience and ability to express vibrant, mineral-driven character even in difficult conditions.
Serve with pike, seabass, turbot, langoustines, scallops and lobster, not to mention risotto with truffles, riz de veau and andouilletes de Lyon au vin blanc...
The best drinking window for the 2022 Domaine aux Moines Roche Aux Moines Savennières is from now until around 2044. While it can be enjoyed in its youth for its lively acidity and fresh fruit, the wine will develop more complexity and depth with age. For the most balanced experience, consider drinking it between 2026 and 2034, when it will likely show an ideal mix of freshness and mature, nuanced flavours. However, it can be aged longer for those who prefer more evolved Chenin Blanc.
