Natural wine has no uniform definition. It is a general term used to describe artisanal wine made using organically and/or biodynamically grown hand-picked grapes which are vinified with little or no intervention. Winemakers often rely on indigenous yeast to catalyse natural fermentation, avoiding the use of any chemicals, additives or sulphites.
The result is wine which is alive, energetic, vibrant and unexpected – a welcomed contrast to the industrial practices of the wine industry.
Name of Estate/Domaine:
Domaine Catherine & Pierre Breton
Vintage: 2019
Tasting Notes
Straw yellow in the glass, with aromas of pear and melon developing into citrus and pineapple notes, with honeycomb and goats milk wrapped in a loving shroud of sweet blossom. The wine has a soft texture, a stroke of mineral, and notes of wildflowers. It is a wine of true pleasure.
*Natural wines are suitable for Vegans & Vegetarians
Country & Region
France - Loire Valley - Vouvray AOC
Grape/Blend
100% Chenin Blanc
Terrior:
In the appellation of Vouvray, the soils are a blend of clay and flintstone in the Vernou-sur-Brenne and Chancay municipalities.
Viticulture:
Vines are 40+ years on average. Vineyards receive ultra-organic care. No chemical fertilisers, only organic manure is used, plant diseases are treated by mineral or vegetal preparations. Pierre’s family have always farmed organically. Catherine and Pierre also farm biodynamically, the vineyard work is carried out in accordance to the planetary calendar, also, all wines are left for a whole lunar month, after the ageing period, before being bottled.
Vinification:
Manual harvested
Gentle pressing
Fermented in stainless steel for 4 months
Indigenous yeast
Filtered to eliminate the microorganisms that would inhibit its stability, thus calling for the addition of too much sulphur.
No Fining
Bottling in April with a bit of residual sugars, to balance the minerality from the soil. The expression of its minerality arrives slowly month after month.
Food Pairing
Ideal as an aperitif, with shellfish, or grilled fish. A typical local fish dish would be pike with beurre blanc. This wine brings out the best in the many, distinctive local cheeses.
