Ronceray, Château de Plaisance

Old vine Chenin Blanc from the unofficial Ronceray appellation of the Quarts de Charmes

Château de Plaisance is the project of rising star Vanessa Cherruau. Taking over the biodynamic estate in 2019, Vanessa has 25 hectares of vineyards that straddle Chaume and Quarts de Chaume, where she produces bone dry Chenin from grapes otherwise destined for sweet wines. The Plaisance estate has been certified organic since 1995, and Demeter certified Biodynamic since 2008. Since Vanessa took over the reins in 2019, she is working to go even further and the goal is to eventually reach carbon neutrality. Lightweight glass bottles (550g), natural corks and plant based dyes are used for the wines, as well as recycled paper and cardboard. 

Wines produced from Grand Cru parcels on the Quarts de Chaume are not allowed to be labelled so unless they are late-harvested and contain at least 3.4g/l residual sugar. Vanessa and her neighbours have agreed to label their dry wines as Ronceray, until such time as they can be officially recognised. This is from vines of 35 – 50 years old, and 30% of the wine spends 12 months in Burgundy barrels, giving more concentration than Vanessa’s l’Anjou Blanc. This is a powerful Chenin, with notes of bright citrus fruits and razor sharp acidity.

Colour – White
Producer – Château de Plaisance
Country – France
Region – Loire
Vegan – Yes
ABV – 13%
Grapes – Chenin Blanc
Vintage – 2022
Sustainability – Biodynamic, Organic
Female Winemaker – Yes
Food Pairings – Smoked Salmon, Lobster