Château de Plaisance, Savennières, Rochefort-Sur-Loire, Anjou-Saumur, Loire, France, 2023

Producer Profile

The Château de Plaisance is located on the ‘Butte de Chaume’, one of the most beautiful and only 1er Cru classified terroir of Anjou!

The vineyard has been run organically and biodynamically since 1995. Though the soils of Chaume are known for their beautiful sweet wines, Guy Rochais was the first to create a dry white: the famous 'Chaume sec de Guy Rochais'. His creation in fact earned him a penalty fine for non-compliance with the AOC body, hence he’s since renamed this dry white 'The insolent'. After 60 years at the helm of Château de Plaisance, the Rochais family have now sold the estate to a young winemaker, Vanessa Cherruau. Born and trained in Angers, she has learnt her winemaking skills both in France and abroad. Vanessa’s first visit to the terroirs of the Château de Plaisance was literally ‘love at first sight’ and in 2019 her very first vintage at Chateau de Plaisance was released!

Viticulture

The vineyard lies on the famed schist and quartz slopes of Savennières, benefiting from exceptional drainage and a unique microclimate ideal for Chenin Blanc. Château de Plaisance employs organic and biodynamic farming practices, focusing on soil vitality, biodiversity, and minimal chemical intervention. Manual pruning, green harvesting, and leaf thinning ensure balanced yields and optimal grape ripeness. The meticulous care in the vineyard fosters healthy vines and concentrated fruit with a true expression of terroir.

Winemaking

Grapes are hand-harvested at optimal maturity and undergo a slow, gentle pressing to preserve delicate aromatics. Fermentation takes place naturally with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks, allowing the varietal character and minerality to shine through. A partial malolactic fermentation softens acidity and enhances texture. The wine is aged for approximately 11 months on fine lees in stainless steel, maintaining freshness while adding complexity and roundness.

Tasting Note

A luminous pale gold colour with subtle green highlights. The nose is expressive and refined, offering aromas of white flowers, citrus zest, quince, and hints of honey and wet stone minerality. On the palate, the wine is vibrant and structured, with bright acidity balanced by a rich, creamy texture. Flavours of ripe pear, apple, and citrus mingle with mineral undertones and a whisper of spice, culminating in a long, elegant finish marked by freshness and precision.

Food Matching

Dishes with subtle herbs and citrus accents, such as lemon-thyme roasted vegetables, rich seafood dishes like lobster, scallops, or crab.