2018 Saumur Blanc - Clos de l'Ecotard

The 2018 Saumur Blanc from Clos de l’Écotard is a superb expression of Chenin Blanc from the limestone soils of the Saumur region. Founded by Michel Chevré, former vineyard manager at Thierry Germain’s Domaine des Roches Neuves, and later joined by his son Thibaud, the estate has established itself as one of the rising benchmarks of the Loire, thanks to precise, profound wines that are remarkably faithful to their terroir.

Produced from vines grown using organic farming methods on a south-facing clay-limestone hill, this Saumur is crafted exclusively from hand-harvested Chenin Blanc. After a gentle pressing, fermentation takes place in barrels, and the wine is then aged on fine lees for approximately 12 months to gain complexity and texture.

The nose reveals fine aromatic intensity, blending ripe yellow fruits, pear, apple, white flowers, and candied citrus. With aeration, nuances of honey, flint, and chalk emerge, perfectly reflecting the limestone identity of the terroir.

The palate seduces with its balance between richness and tension. The 2018 vintage provides generous and indulgent substance, quickly enlivened by a saline freshness characteristic of the great Chenins of Saumur. The finish is long, chiseled, and mineral, carried by beautiful aromatic persistence.

At the table, this gastronomic white wine perfectly accompanies noble fish, crustaceans, cream-sauce poultry, asparagus, or Loire goat cheeses. It can be enjoyed today but will continue to evolve favorably for several years.