Anjou Blanc is a white wine grape variety that is widely grown in the Loire Valley region of France. The grape is known for producing wines that are crisp, refreshing, and aromatic, with notes of citrus, green apple, and white flowers. One of the most notable producers of Anjou Blanc is Domaine de Montgilet, a family-owned winery located in the heart of the Anjou wine region.
Domaine de Montgilet has been producing high-quality Anjou Blanc wines for several generations, using traditional winemaking techniques and a deep respect for the land and the grape. The winery’s vineyards are situated on the slopes of the Layon River, where the soils are rich in schist and limestone, providing the perfect growing conditions for Anjou Blanc. The grapes are harvested by hand and carefully sorted before being fermented in stainless steel tanks, allowing the pure expression of the grape to shine through in the finished wine.
The resulting wines from Domaine de Montgilet are known for their bright acidity, vibrant fruit flavours, and elegant minerality. They are a perfect accompaniment to a wide range of dishes, from seafood and salads to grilled chicken and pork. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with food, the Anjou Blanc wines from Domaine de Montgilet are a true expression of the terroir and the winemaker’s artistry.
History of Domaine de Montgilet
Founding Era
Domaine de Montgilet is a family-owned winery located in the Loire Valley of France. The winery was founded in 1850 by the Montgilet family, who were passionate about producing high-quality wines in the region. The family started with a small vineyard and gradually expanded their operations over the years.
During the early years of the winery, the Montgilet family faced many challenges, including harsh weather conditions and economic downturns. However, they persevered and continued to produce exceptional wines that gained popularity among wine enthusiasts.
Generational Handover
In the 1960s, the winery was handed over to the next generation of the Montgilet family. The new generation brought fresh ideas and innovative techniques, which helped modernize the winery and improve the quality of their wines.
Under the new leadership, the winery expanded its vineyards and introduced new grape varieties, such as Anjou Blanc. The Montgilet family also invested in new equipment and technology to improve the efficiency of their winemaking process.
Today, Domaine de Montgilet is run by the fifth generation of the Montgilet family. They continue to uphold the family’s tradition of producing exceptional wines while incorporating modern techniques and sustainable practices.
In conclusion, Domaine de Montgilet has a rich history that spans over 170 years. The winery has faced many challenges over the years but has persevered and continued to produce exceptional wines that are enjoyed by wine enthusiasts around the world.
Anjou Blanc Wine
Production Process
Anjou Blanc is a white wine that is made from Chenin Blanc grapes grown in the Anjou region of the Loire Valley in France. Domaine de Montgilet is a winery that produces Anjou Blanc wine using traditional winemaking techniques. The grapes are harvested by hand and then gently pressed to extract the juice. The juice is then fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature to preserve the wine’s delicate aromas and flavours.
After fermentation, the wine ages on its lees for several months to develop its complexity and depth. The lees are the dead yeast cells and other solids that settle at the bottom of the tank during fermentation. Ageing on the lees gives the wine a creamy texture and a distinct nutty flavour.
Taste Profile
Anjou Blanc wine is known for its crisp acidity and bright citrus flavours. It has a pale yellow colour and a floral aroma with hints of honey and green apple. The wine is dry and refreshing, with a medium body and a long, smooth finish.
Domaine de Montgilet’s Anjou Blanc is a classic example of the style, with a perfect balance of fruit and acidity. It pairs well with a variety of foods, including seafood, poultry, and salads.
Overall, Anjou Blanc is a delicious and versatile wine that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are enjoying a glass with friends or pairing it with a meal, Domaine de Montgilet’s Anjou Blanc is sure to impress.
Côteaux de l’Aubance Les Trois Schites
Located near the city of Angers, this exceptional appellation is shared by ten municipalities. It extends on both sides of the Aubance, a small stream, in a highly sheltered site that enjoys protection from rain. The vineyards classified under this appellation feature shallow soils that quickly absorb warmth but have limited water reserves. The exclusive grape variety, Chenin Blanc, also known as “Pineau de Loire,” is meticulously harvested in successive selections as the grapes reach optimal ripeness and accumulate rich sugars, contributing to the wine’s luscious character.
To ensure the production of high-quality grapes, we carefully prune the Chenin vines, leaving two sets of three buds. To control vigour, we allow 50% of the ground between rows to be covered in grass, cultivating between the vines, promoting better airflow and minimizing disease incidence. Manual thinning is performed in mid-July during the green harvest, leaving only 5 to 6 clusters per vine. This process includes the removal of unnecessary shoots and aims to maximize aeration. The vines are meticulously leaf-thinned twice, once after flowering and again at the end of August, preventing the development of grey rot.
Since 1999, we have embraced organic practices, refraining from the use of synthetic chemicals. We employ mechanical cultivation between the vines and utilize compost for fertilization, fostering a sustainable and natural approach to viticulture.
The harvest is carried out in five successive selections, with the final one concluding in late November. “Les Trois Schistes” is the culmination of carefully chosen grapes from the three distinct terroirs of Domaine de Montgilet. The botrytized harvest exhibits a remarkable potential alcohol content of 17% on the vine. The grapes or their selected parts are delicately harvested in 30 kg crates to prevent any damage, then undergo a slow and extended pressing in a vertical press, all without racking, to extract the fullest structure while preserving finesse and elegance. This cuvée undergoes fermentation and matures in barrels.
The Wines
2022 Les Trois Schites
The 2022 Les Trois Schistes from Domaine de Montgilet is a wine that truly delights the senses. Its captivating bouquet showcases a vibrant array of red fruits, accompanied by delicate floral nuances. On the palate, this wine unveils a medium-bodied structure with well-integrated acidity and refined tannins, resulting in a harmonious and lingering finish.
2019 Les Trios Schites
The 2019 Les Trois Schistes from Domaine de Montgilet is a wine of pure delight. It displays a vibrant bouquet of red fruits, complemented by subtle floral notes. On the palate, it exhibits a medium-bodied structure, well-integrated acidity, and polished tannins, leading to a harmonious and lingering finish. At harvest, the wine exhibits a sugar richness of 17°C, with an alcohol content of 11% volume and 184 g/l residual sugars.
2017 Anjou-Village Brissac Les Yvonnais Cabernet Franc
This Cabernet Franc displays a deep ruby-red color with a youthful vibrancy. The nose is filled with red berry aromas, predominantly red currants and raspberries, alongside subtle herbal notes and a touch of graphite. Fresh and energetic, featuring bright red fruit flavors, supported by a lively acidity. There are herbal undertones, a hint of green bell pepper, and well-integrated tannins. The finish is clean and persistent.
2015 Les Trios Schites
The 2015 Les Trois Schistes from Domaine de Montgilet is a captivating wine. With a deep and complex character, it unveils aromas of ripe red fruits, intertwined with hints of herbs and spices. On the palate, it showcases a velvety texture, balanced acidity, and refined tannins, leading to a long and elegant finish. This vintage represents the artistry and finesse of Domaine de Montgilet, offering a truly remarkable tasting experience.
2010 Coteaux de L’Aubance Clos Prieur
This wine showcases a brilliant golden hue with amber reflections, suggesting its age. The nose greets you with aromas of ripe apricot, honey, and a touch of acacia blossom, followed by subtle hints of nutmeg and a trace of minerality.On the palate, it is elegantly sweet with a perfect balance of acidity. Notes of candied orange peel and apricot jam unfold, leading to a long and satisfying finish with a gentle floral essence.
1989 Coteaux de L’Aubance Cuvee Prestige
Deep amber, almost mahogany in color, showcasing its significant age and complexity. The bouquet is intense and opulent, exuding aromas of dried figs, toffee, and toasted almonds, with subtle nuances of dried flowers and leather. A luscious, sweet nectar, this wine delights with flavors of caramelized apricots, preserved plums, and hints of baking spices. The finish is incredibly long and leaves a memorable impression.
