Château de Plaisance

Though the soils of Chaume are known for their delectable, sweet wines, Guy Rochais was the first to create a dry white: the famous ‘Chaume sec de Guy Rochais’. In fact, his creation earned him a penalty fine for non-compliance with the AOC body, causing him to re-christen it ‘The Insolent’. After 60 years at the helm of Château de Plaisance, the Rochais family have now sold the estate to young winemaker Vanessa Cherruau. Born and trained in Angers, she has learned 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

Vineyards are planted with Chenin Blanc as well as a little Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The vines grow in a unique soil of Schist, Spilite, Sandstone and Poudingue that allow for perfect drainage. In the vineyard, pruning is done in the Guillot-Poussard method to respect the flow of sap, control the load of the vine and avoid pile up. They practice meticulous debudding and leaf stripping if necessary. Work is done minimally between rows to promote ambient biodiversity. Laying the grass down, mulching naturally, protecting rather than turning the earth. Letting the flora and fauna present express themselves: nature as the main means of protection.

Winemaking

The wines are all an expression of the terroir from which they come. All the cuvées are vinified naturally, without any intervention and without any input (except for micro-doses of sulphur). This requires irreproachable rigour in the winery, impeccable hygiene, very regular tastings and a lot of time and effort.