Representing the 8th generation of a winemaking family in Saumur-Champigny, Fabien Duveau started the conversion to organic viticulture in 2008 when he took over the domaine from his Father. His desire for preserving the natural heritage and ‘clean farming’ extends to his cultivation of biodiversity in and around all 40 parcels of vines. There is a mix of clones in the vineyard creating complexity of flavours and the yields are carefully controlled. Beneath the clay and limestone soil lies a low plateau of distinct white calcareous rock, tuffeau, which runs under Fabien’s holdings retaining water, but also draining effectively. This allows the natural release of water to the vines protecting them against hydric stress, but also allows the land to store the heat by day and diffuse it by night back to the vines.
His mission to produce the best quality grapes he can, means he is able to employ minimal invention in his 14th century cave, using only wild yeasts and minimal sulphites. Judicious use of French oak barrique, one-third new, one-third one year and one-third two years, ensures the vineyard characteristics are retained and above all, the wines offer energy, delicacy and purity. This dedication and focus ensure his wines capture the dazzling intensity of Chenin Blanc and reveal the fragrant aromatics, vibrant fruit and velvet tannins of Cabernet Franc. These are wines which are genuinely exciting and enjoyable.
