Domaine des Grouas, 'Ornithogale' 2022

Pauline and Lionel created Domaine des Grouas in July 2022 in Martigné-Briand at the confluence of the Anjou Noir and Anjou Blanc on the curves of the Layon River. We are yet again witnessing the early stages of a young and promising Domaine. The 14 hectares are certified organic since 2018. Their approach to the vines and wines is to respect the environment, bringing the best of each plot and its terroir in overall minimalistic approach and very limited input. After a first career in consultancy and digital technology, Lionel decided to follow his lifelong passion for wine and returned to school. Once he graduated in viticulture and oenology his first worked at Domaine de Belliviere in Jasniere, followed by Domaine de l’Elu and nearby Domaine Ogereau. The first few years of Domaine des Grouas is on reconstructing the vineyards. Mainly planted with Cabernet Sauvignon that the previous owners sold in bulk as Cabernet d’Anjou! A pure waste of prime terroir. They are the lucky custodian of 2.7 Hectares of Les Onglés, a vineyard that produces amongst the Finest Chenin Blancs on the planet.

Grape Varieties: Chardonnay Age of Vines: 16 years old Terroir: Spoiled schists and metagrauwackes with ferruginous quartz Vineyard/Plot Name: Le Moulin de Martigne Exposition: North-South Vineyard Surface Area: 1ha Altitude: 55m Planting Density: 4500 Vines/ha Yield: 45hl per ha Production (Btls): 1300 Bottles Vinification: Direct Press, cold settling, native yeasts, fermentation in stainless steel tank, no fining or filtration. Ageing: 8 Months in Stainless steel tanks Alcohol: 12% Certified Organic: Yes