Château de Plaisance
Château de Plaisanceis an esteemed winery located in the heart of the Loire Valley, specifically in the Anjou region. Nestled within the prestigious Coteaux du Layon and Savennières appellations, this historic estate has been rejuvenated under the stewardship ofVanessa Cherruau, who acquired the property in 2019. Her vision combines respect for tradition with a contemporary approach, emphasizing biodynamic and organic practices to craft wines of exceptional quality and character.
Château de Plaisanceis an esteemed winery located in the heart of the Loire Valley, specifically in the Anjou region. Nestled within the prestigious Coteaux du Layon and Savennières appellations, this historic estate has been rejuvenated under the stewardship ofVanessa Cherruau, who acquired the property in 2019. Her vision combines respect for tradition with a contemporary approach, emphasizing biodynamic and organic practices to craft wines of exceptional quality and character.
Château de Plaisanceis an esteemed winery located in the heart of the Loire Valley, specifically in the Anjou region. Nestled within the prestigious Coteaux du Layon and Savennières appellations, this historic estate has been rejuvenated under the stewardship ofVanessa Cherruau, who acquired the property in 2019. Her vision combines respect for tradition with a contemporary approach, emphasizing biodynamic and organic practices to craft wines of exceptional quality and character.
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Organic
Biodynamic
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Vineyard and Terroir
Château de Plaisance spans approximately25 hectaresof vineyards, set amidst the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of Anjou. The estate is divided among several prime terroirs, including the renowned Coteaux du Layon and Savennières.
Coteaux du Layon: Famous for its sweet wines, the vineyards here benefit from a unique microclimate influenced by the Layon River, which encourages the development of noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). This results in luscious, concentrated wines with incredible complexity and balance.
Savennières: Situated on schist and volcanic soils, this appellation produces dry Chenin Blanc wines of remarkable minerality, structure, and aging potential.
The estate practicescertified biodynamic farming, ensuring that the health of the soil and ecosystem is preserved. Hand-harvesting and meticulous vineyard management are central to their philosophy, allowing for optimal grape expression.
Grape Varieties
Château de Plaisance focuses primarily onChenin Blanc, the iconic white grape of the Loire Valley, andCabernet Franc, the region's signature red variety. A small amount of other varieties, such as Grolleau and Gamay, are also cultivated, particularly for their vibrant rosés.
Winemaking Philosophy
Vanessa Cherruau emphasizes a minimalist, terroir-driven approach in the cellar, allowing the unique characteristics of each vineyard to shine. Native yeast fermentation, gentle pressing, and careful aging in a mix of stainless steel tanks, amphorae, and neutral oak barrels are employed to craft wines that balance freshness, depth, and precision.
Wines of Château de Plaisance
Dry Chenin Blanc
Characteristics: These wines, particularly from Savennières, are dry, complex, and mineral-driven, with notes of citrus, white flowers, honey, and flint. They have a vibrant acidity that supports their longevity and aging potential.
Examples:
Savennières "Roche aux Moines" is a standout, showcasing power and finesse with a profound sense of place.
Sweet Chenin Blanc
Characteristics: From the Coteaux du Layon, these wines are rich and opulent, offering flavors of apricot, quince, marmalade, and honey, all balanced by a vibrant acidity that prevents them from feeling cloying. They are ideal for aging and pair beautifully with foie gras or blue cheese.
Examples: Coteaux du Layon "Le Clos" is a masterpiece of sweetness and elegance.
Cabernet Franc
Characteristics: Crafted with finesse, the red wines are expressive yet elegant, featuring flavors of ripe red berries, herbs, and subtle earthiness. They are approachable when young but develop complexity with age.
Rosé Wines
Characteristics: Made from Grolleau and Cabernet Franc, these are lively, fresh, and aromatic, with notes of strawberry, red currant, and delicate spice. Perfect for casual sipping or pairing with light dishes.
Style and Reputation
Château de Plaisance is celebrated for its dynamic and contemporary approach to Loire Valley winemaking, while remaining deeply rooted in the traditions of the region. Vanessa Cherruau has revitalized the estate, making it a rising star in the Loire Valley and a favorite among wine enthusiasts seeking biodynamic wines that express their terroir with elegance and authenticity. Whether crafting crystalline dry whites, sumptuous sweet wines, or delicate reds and rosés, Château de Plaisance consistently delivers excellence.
