Domaine Andrée, Chenin Blanc, Anjou "Les Faraunières" Loire Valley, France 2017

The Domaine Andrée Anjou Blanc "Les Faraunières" comes from 1.4 hectares of 100-year old Chenin Blanc planted in schistous soil with yellow clay and quartz. The wine goes through malolactic fermentation in barrel. It is aged for approximately 10 months in oak (30% new) on its lees without being touched.

Stéphane Erissé was a builder for 15 years before he decided to switch gears in 2008. Fortunately for him, he knew exactly who to call for a wine apprenticeship, and spent the next three years under Antoine Foucault at Domaine du Collier. That was Stéphane's only “experience” before setting out on his own, and it deeply informs his approach.

When the time came to find vineyards, Stéphane selected three hectares from a grower who had been organic for over twenty-five years. Many of the parcels are of old vines. He also insisted on staying small, only working with three hectares, so he could have a direct connection to all of his farming.