2023 Champalou - Vouvray (750ml)

Domaine Champalou was founded in 1983 by Catherine and Didier Champalou, who both came from established vigneron families but chose to build their own estate right after finishing viticultural school in Saumur. Catherine is a twelfth generation vigneron and Didier a sixth, giving the domaine deep roots despite its relatively young age by French standards. Their daughter Céline has since joined the operation after gaining experience abroad in New Zealand, South Africa, and beyond, continuing a family style built on elegance and precision rather than heavy oak or technical manipulation.

The Champalous farm twenty one hectares of vineyard on rich, deep soils of clay, limestone, and flint, all planted to Chenin Blanc, known locally as Pineau de la Loire. Farming is sustainable, guided in part by the lunar calendar, with regular plowing to aerate the soil and cover crops planted between rows to support microbial activity and manage water absorption. This flagship Vouvray comes from vines around thirty five years old, fermented and aged entirely in stainless steel to keep the focus on pure fruit and terroir rather than oak influence.

The wine is pale straw in color, with fragrant aromas of ripe pear, white peach, and acacia blossom touched by a whisper of honey. The palate is supple and refined, framed by vibrant acidity and layered flavors of baked apple and beeswax, finishing with a distinct saline minerality. Its bright structure pairs well with grilled sole, fresh oysters, or a soft ripened cheese.