Dessert Wine | France | Loire valley | 75cl
£24.95
/
£149.70
£142.22 case
ABV: 11%
Size: 75cl
Closure Type: Cork
Country: France
Region: Loire valley
Wine Style: Sweet
Grape: Chenin Blanc
Château de la Roulerie is a 36 ha estate at Saint-Aubin-de-Luigné area of Anjou. The vineyards were established in the 14th century and the estate dates from the 19th century.
It was purchased by Bernard Germain in 1994 before passing to his son Philippe Germain and daughter in-law Marie in 2004. The Germains are a long-established family in the area with Philippe’s brother owning a nearby property and their father an ex-owner of the famous Château de Fesles. Planted mainly with Chenin Blanc on well-positioned, south and south-west facing schistous slopes. In 2011 he started the conversion to organic and biodynamic viticulture, achieving certified organic status in 2015. Yields are low – generally around 30 hl/ha – and the wines are made using minimal intervention favouring freshness and elegance.
The botrytised Chenin grapes are picked by hand. The whole process is adapted to the character of the grapes in order to enhance the bouquet and taste as much as possible: careful hand-harvesting, delicate crushing, and a cool, slow fermentation. Aging takes place in 400 litre casks for 12 months. The bouquet gradually reveals its complex notes, with a flowery blossom, white fruits (peaches, pears, quinces) and grapefruit. A slight hint of vanilla at the end reinforces this fine, sweet wine. Richness, smoothness and persistence are in exceptional balance.
