Domaine Chancelle, organic wines in Saumur

The very low-key Bourdin Chancelle estate has embodied the tradition and purity of Saumur wines for six generations. The estate has been run by Thierry and Lydie Chancelle since 2000, and they have recently been joined by their son Léonard.

Beyond organic farming and a commitment to tradition, the charm of this estate lies in its determination to produce wines that reflect its own character, without succumbing to passing fads or any outside influence.

The result is wines of great sincerity, characterised by ripeness and a remarkable purity of fruit. Minimalist winemaking techniques and ageing in old casks shape the wines without any frills or pretentious ageing styles, thereby preserving their remarkable identity.

26 plots overlooking the Loire

The estate, comprising 14 hectares of vineyards spread across 26 plots, overlooks the Loire, 9 kilometres east of Saumur and 3 kilometres from the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud. The vineyard is planted with 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Chenin on clay-limestone slopes.

Organic farming without compromise

The entire estate is managed using certified organic farming methods. The soil is worked using the ‘cavaillon’ method, with natural grass cover along the rows themselves. The vines are protected primarily using Bordeaux mixture and sulphur.

Saumur or Saumur-Champigny?

Did you know: what is the difference between Saumur and Saumur-Champigny? The Saumur region comprises seven appellations, the main ones being Saumur and Saumur-Champigny. Whilst the Saumur appellation covers white, rosé and red wines, the Saumur-Champigny appellation is exclusively for red wines produced across nine villages.

A few photos of the Chancelle estate in Saumur

Source: https://domainechancelle.sitew.org/