2020 Domaine Belargus Anjou 'Quarts'

Region: Quarts-de-Chaume, Anjou, Loire Valley, France

Grape: 100% Chenin Blanc

Vineyard Practice: Certified organic, practising biodynamic

Culinary Suggestions: Shellfish, Truffle Dishes, Parmigiano Cheese

Alcohol: 13%

Bottle Size: 750ml

This golden-hued Chenin Blanc is showcasing a unique blend of floral and fruity notes, enriched by the distinct minerality of Precambrian schist soils. With a palate that balances ripe fruit flavours with fine salinity and a subtly bitter finish, it promises complexity and ageing potential.

Origins

Domaine Belargus introduces revolutionary dynamism to the Loire Valley under the guidance of Ivan Massonnat, a wine enthusiast who also has interests in Philippe Pacalet in Burgundy. The acquisition of Jo Pithon's esteemed estate and additional key vineyards has expanded the domaine to encompass 24 hectares of the prime Anjou Noir terroir, including celebrated plots like "Coteau des Treilles," "Clos des Ruchères," and "Les Quarts." This newcomer has quickly garnered attention for producing wines of Grand Cru calibre.

The estate's commitment to organic and biodynamic methodologies, pioneered by Jo Pithon and Guy Bossard, has established it as a leader in the revitalisation of some of France's most valued vineyards. The Coteau des Treilles, a particularly steep 2.72-hectare plot in Rochefort with slopes ranging from 30% to 70%, was reinvigorated by Pithon in the late 1990s. Situated on magmatic rocks from the Armorican Massif, this monopole yields Chenin of exceptional quality, deeply reflective of its intricate geological structure.

"Les Quarts" is a distinguished plot with a storied past that shaped the Quarts-de-Chaume appellation. According to historical accounts, before the French Revolution, the lords of Haute-Guerche would fulfill their obligations to Ronceray Abbey with the first quarter of their harvest, thus originating the name of the appellation.

Occupying 3.08 hectares, "Les Quarts" is strategically located on the southern slope, where Precambrian schists underpin the soil, lending refined elegance and a prolonged finish to its wines. The 2020 'Quarts' cuvée, crafted in a dry style, qualifies for the Anjou AOP, showcasing versatility in its classification.

Cork Tasting Notes

Distinguished by the schist terroir, which adds a certain straightness and tension to the wine. It has a golden tone and begins with fragrant layers of yellow flowers and quinces. The palate is well-defined, with a saline and vertical profile that culminates in the distinct bitterness of the Quarts-de-Chaume region.

This wine is pure and delicate, with vivid notes of bergamot, acacia, Sicilian lemon, and toasted almond. The palate is briskly flowery and delicately saline, with slightly riper fruit flavours than previous vintages from the estate. Flavours of flat peach, apricot, and orange zest combine effortlessly with white flowers and fragrant herbs.