Wines Saumur Château Fosse-Sèche - Arcane - 2018

Château Fosse-Sèche’s ‘Cuvée Arcane’ 2018 is a notable white wine from the Saumur appellation in the Anjou-Saumur subregion of the Loire Valley. Certified organic, this wine embodies the estate’s commitment to sustainable viticulture. While the precise grape varieties in this cuvée are not explicitly stated, Saumur whites are traditionally made with Chenin Blanc, offering a style that is typically fresh and vibrant, with marked acidity and mineral nuances. The 2018 vintage benefited from a warmer season, often resulting in wines with ripe fruit character balanced by the signature freshness of the Loire. Fermentation and ageing processes at Fosse-Sèche may include a mindful use of stainless steel or neutral vessels, promoting the purest expression of the fruit and terroir.

The Saumur region, at the heart of the Loire Valley, is distinguished by its unique mix of clay-limestone soils, which impart a distinct minerality to its wines. Its cool climate, moderated by the Loire River, helps preserve the natural acidity of the grapes while allowing slow, even ripening. The viticultural history here is rich, with monastic orders cultivating wine for centuries, and estates like Fosse-Sèche are celebrated for their dedication to organic and biodynamic principles, further enhancing the authentic character of the wines.

Food pairings for this style of Saumur Blanc suit dishes that echo its freshness and vibrancy. Locally, it pairs beautifully with river fish such as pike-perch or trout, served with beurre blanc sauce. Other excellent accompaniments include goat’s cheese from the Loire, shellfish, rosemary-roasted poultry and delicate vegetable tarts. Its crisp acidity can also contrast pleasantly with richer dishes, cleansing the palate.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly chilled, ideally at 10-12°C. Decanting for half an hour can help its subtle aromas unfurl. This cuvée is very much at home on a spring or summer table, capturing the tranquil elegance and mineral length that are hallmarks of the finest Loire Valley whites.