Alcohol: 13%
Grape(s): 100% Chenin Blanc
Location: Montlouis-sur-Loire, Loire Valley, France
Tasting Notes: Pale golden yellow with delicate green reflections, this beautifully expressive demi-sec Chenin Blanc offers inviting aromas of ripe pear, juicy white peach, quince, and fragrant white flowers, complemented by subtle notes of honey and citrus zest. On the palate, it is rich, supple, and wonderfully balanced, revealing layers of ripe orchard fruits, delicate stone fruit, and gentle honeyed sweetness. Vibrant acidity provides remarkable freshness and tension, beautifully balancing the wine's natural residual sugar. A distinctive mineral character adds complexity and elegance, leading to a long, refreshing finish with lingering notes of ripe fruit and citrus. A captivating Loire Valley white that combines richness, freshness, and just the right touch of sweetness.
Notes: Crafted exclusively from Chenin Blanc grown in the Clos de la Garenne, a prized monopole vineyard belonging to Domaine Damien Moyer. Planted in 1905, these remarkable old vines are rooted in clay-limestone and flint soils overlooking the Loire River, contributing exceptional concentration, mineral complexity, and natural acidity. The estate has practiced organic viticulture for many years and received official organic certification in 2023. Grapes are harvested by hand in small crates and carefully sorted twice to ensure optimal quality. Following gentle pneumatic pressing, fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks over approximately five months, preserving the purity and freshness of the fruit. The wine retains approximately 30 grams per liter of residual sugar, creating a beautifully balanced demi-sec style in which gentle sweetness is complemented by vibrant acidity. After fermentation, the wine is transferred by gravity, blended, and bottled at the estate. The result is an elegant, expressive Chenin Blanc that showcases the remarkable character of century-old vines and the distinctive terroir of Montlouis-sur-Loire.
Food Pairing: An exceptionally versatile wine that pairs beautifully with spicy Thai cuisine, aromatic Indian curries, Moroccan tagines, and Asian-inspired dishes featuring a touch of sweetness and spice. Its vibrant acidity and delicate sweetness also complement roasted pork with fruit sauces, glazed chicken, and rich poultry preparations. For cheese lovers, enjoy with aged Comté, Gruyère, mature Cheddar, or creamy blue cheeses. Equally delightful alongside fruit-based desserts such as apple tart, pear crumble, peach cobbler, or traditional French clafoutis. A wonderful choice for entertaining and an excellent companion from appetizers through dessert.
Winery Story: Domaine Damien Moyer is a historic family-owned wine estate located in Husseau, in the heart of Montlouis-sur-Loire. The Moyer family's winemaking heritage dates back to 1850, spanning eight generations of passionate winegrowers dedicated to the exceptional terroir of the Loire Valley. After years of working alongside his father and brother, Damien Moyer began independently managing his vineyards and wines in 2011, developing a distinctive style focused on freshness, vitality, and authentic expressions of Chenin Blanc. Today, Damien and his wife, Marie-Claire, oversee approximately 8.5 hectares of organically farmed vineyards, including three treasured monopole parcels. The estate is devoted entirely to Chenin Blanc, producing a remarkable range of wines that highlight the grape's extraordinary versatility. Damien's philosophy emphasizes respectful vineyard management, careful hand harvesting, and thoughtful winemaking that allows each vineyard to express its unique personality. The "Origine" Demi-Sec, produced from vines planted in 1905, beautifully embodies this commitment, offering a harmonious combination of old-vine concentration, delicate sweetness, vibrant acidity, and distinctive Loire Valley minerality.
