From: Loire Valley, France
Varietal: Chenin Blanc
Taste: This Chenin will be an absolute new favorite for Loire Valley wine lovers, as the wine is fresh without feeling bracing and conveys all the characteristics of Chenin Blanc without being unctuous. Lovely aromas of honeysuckle and peach blossom burst from the glass, followed by a hint of lime zest and baking spice. The palate has bright and juicy apricot, white peach, and golden pear fruit, along with candied citrus peel.
Pairing: This gorgeous white wine will grace your table with a ton of energy and pizazz. Pair it with any roasted poultry or creamy chicken or pork dish, baked/breaded/fried/grilled/poached flaky white fish or prawns, and rich seafood dishes like crab or lobster. Pastas with a citrus or cream sauce will work beautifully here as well, along with risotto, soft cheeses, and roasted winter vegetables served by themselves or as a gratin (check out the recipe below for yet another squash-based vegetarian idea!).
Spiced Squash and Phyllo Pie
By David Tanis
About. Domaine du Pas Saint Martin is set among troglodyte caves formed out of ancient fossilized marine life that covered the Saumur region 10 million years ago. During the Middle Ages these caves served the Protestants as secret places of worship.
Laurent Charrier and his mother run the domaine which is a certified organic farm. Laurent’s father was not interested in producing wine and thus in 1994 when Laurent took over the responsibility of the domaine, he picked up where his grandfather had left off. He immediately set out to acquire certification for organic farming which he received in 1997.
Laurent grows mainly Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc, which he masterfully crafts into elegant expressions of his terroir. He is passionately committed to biodiversity in his vineyards and surrounding woods, and in 2009, along with local artisans, started "Le Monde de Pierre Frite", an interactive teaching program for children to raise awareness and understanding of this important topic. In 2012, the domaine received the Eco-Trophée from the Parc National Loire-Anjou-Touraine for his environmentally-friendly practices in all aspects of vineyard work, winemaking and promotion of environmental awareness.
The family vineyards are a bit spread out with small holdings in Anjou and Coteaux du Layon in addition to their primary vineyard in Saumur. The average age of the vines is 25 years with a good part being older than 35 years. Vinification is carried out in temperature controlled stainless steel vats.
The Saumur Blanc is produced from 100% Chenin Blanc that grow in siliceous-limestone soils. Vinification methods include the settling of the must “debourbage” which concentrates the flavors, and extended contact with the lies to enrich the wine. There is no malo-lactic fermentation resulting in a wine that offers springtime aromas and a refreshing palate.