QuartsdeChaumeGrandCru2022DomainedesForges

This is a tiny appellation (42ha.) which is split between about twenty growers. It is situated on a steep south-facing slope, over-looking the Layon river, where the autumn mists are ideal for the development of Botrytis Cinéréa (noble rot), vital to the development of fine sweet wines. With only 17hl./ha produced, these individually picked grapes are gathered using at least 4 tries (separate pickings). One of France’s great sweet wines that has the potentialto age. Of the 2022 vintage, Jancis Robinson says “a warm ripe vintage with refreshing mid-August rains. Concentrated wines with good acidity. One for the cellar!â€?/p>

2022 �11% abv

DOMAINE des FORGESSince 1890, the historic 50-hectare family domaine has been owned and run by five generations of the Brancherau family. Today, Stéphane and his wife, Séverine, are in charge and are gaining a reputation for producing some exceptional wines, from their 28 hectares of Chenin Blanc. The property is situated in the iconic village of Saint-Aubin de Luigné (also known as la Perle du Layon), about 20 kilometres from Angers. Stéphane is an astute wine-maker and vigneron, with a clear understanding of the complicated patchwork of differing terroirs to be found in this beautiful region. These range from schist to carboniferous soils, where differing styles of Chenin Blanc are concentrated. The vineyards are cultivated using environmentally sustainable methods and are the Branchereaus are gradually moving towards organic and biodynamic conversion. This is an intriguing and thought-provoking collection of Chenin Blanc, incorporating a wide range of styles.