Alcohol: 12.5%
Grape(s): Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay
Localization: Anjou, Loire Valley, France
Tasting Notes: Clear yellow color, fine bubbles. Open your nose to the white-fleshed fruits' aroma (peach, pear) and a subtle zest of torrefaction, that of brioche. Ample mouth, delicate moustille. It has a lovely volume, combining its remarkable freshness and beautiful aromatic complexity.
Notes: Hand-harvested; produced by méthode champenoise; aged sur lie for minimum one year. Brut nature; no dosage.
The Domain: Domaine de la Bergerie has been a family estate since 1961, first purchased by Marie-Scholastique Horeau and eventually passed down to her grandson, Yves Guégniard, with his wife, Marie-Annick. A family affair, in 2018, Yves passed the reins to their daughters Anne and Marie.
The estate is in the heart of Côteaux du Layon, in the Anjou region of the central Loire Valley, and encompasses the famed Clos de la Bergerie. It has always adhered to a high standard of excellence, including green harvesting, strict sorting, and separate vinification of each parcel. They were certified organic in 2016, and the vineyards spread throughout multiple appellations, including Anjou (blanc and rouge), Savennières, Côteaux du Layon, and Quarts de Chaume. From soils of schist and clay, Chenin Blanc makes up the majority of their plantings, joined by other varietals, such as Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Grolleau.
In addition to Anne’s work as the fourth generation of winemakers just beginning at Domaine de la Bergerie, the entire operation is a family affair: following stints with Alain Ducasse and Joël Robuchon, Anne’s husband, David, has opened a beautiful and renowned one-Michelin-star restaurant on the property. His local cuisine is a lovely complement to the outstanding sparkling and still wines made here. The succession of the next generation brings exciting new energy to this property – and fascinating wines.
