Domaine des Forges - "Clos du Papillon" Savennières 2024

Domaine des Forges is a fifth-generation family estate located in the heart of Anjou, where Stéphane and Séverine Branchereau steward nearly 50 hectares of sustainably farmed vineyards. The domaine is best known for its exceptional Chenin Blanc, including prized holdings in Clos du Papillon, Roche aux Moines, Moulin du Gué, and Quarts de Chaume Grand Cru. Farming is certified HVE Level 3, with permanent cover crops, meticulous canopy management and a strong commitment to preserving healthy soils while minimizing chemical inputs. In the cellar, Stéphane favors patient, low-intervention winemaking that allows each vineyard's schist-rich terroir to speak clearly, producing wines of remarkable purity, tension and longevity that rank among the Loire Valley's finest expressions of Chenin Blanc.

Brilliant pale gold in the glass, Domaine des Forges’ Clos du Papillon Savennières offers an intensely mineral bouquet layered with quince, baked pear, preserved lemon, white peach and acacia blossom, accented by hints of beeswax and wet stone The palate is powerful yet impeccably focused, combining concentrated orchard fruit with racy acidity and the hallmark tension of Chenin Blanc grown on schist. A chalky, saline minerality carries through the remarkably long finish, leaving lingering notes of citrus zest, crushed stone and a delicate phenolic grip. Although captivating in its youth, this wine possesses the structure and balance to evolve beautifully for a decade or more. Wonderful with seafood… enjoy with freshly shucked oysters, scallop crudo, lobster with drawn butter or roasted halibut, though this sensational Savennières will pair seamlessly with herb-roasted chicken or classic blanquette de veau.