Saumur Vieilles Vignes Blanc

Notes - Maison Langlois-Chateau, at St-Hilaire-St-Florent in the Loire, was founded in 1912 initially specialising in sparkling wines. The Maison was bought by Champagne Bollinger in 1973 who contributed their great knowledge and financial clout. These days all Langlois-Chateau's vineyards are cultivated in accordance with Terra Vitis, production of quality grapes, with character, but with a thorough respect for the ecosystem. The Vieilles Vignes cuvée is produced from two low yielding 1 hectare plots of Chenin Blanc, both well in excess of 35 years old. The soil is the characteristic Saumur mixture of sand and limestone, with a high calcium content vital for the preservation of the acidity in the fruit and therefore allowing for a longer ripening period which concentrates and enhances the flavours. The Langlois-Château Chenin vineyards are around St Florent. The grapes are hand harvested with several "tries" - or passes through the vineyards - to ensure all fruit is of optimum ripeness. The fruit is gently pressed and fermented to dryness in barrel. The oak employed allows the Chenin flavours to shine, without being masked by excessive new oak character. Nevertheless barrel-fermentation allows for a gentler, longer and more extended flavour development. The wine rests on its lees for a further 10 months in barrel, which imparts a richness and nutty character to augment the fruit flavours. The Saumur Blanc Vieilles Vignes, from a particular gnarly old vineyard is an extraordinary wine and the definition of Chenin Blanc. Honeyed and floral with powerful fruit, well-judged oak and a herby hazelnut hint.
 
     

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