Wines Anjou Coteaux de la Loire Domaine Pierre Chauvin - 2014

Viniou Reviews

Domaine Pierre Chauvin’s 2014 Anjou Coteaux de la Loire Moelleux is a beautifully crafted organic sweet white wine, showcasing the charm and delicacy of the Chenin Blanc grape. The 2014 vintage benefitted from a balanced growing season, allowing the grapes to develop ample ripeness and complexity while retaining a vibrant acidity. The vineyard’s careful organic viticulture preserves the purity of the fruit and captures the unique signature of the terroir. The wine is likely the result of late-harvested grapes, in some cases with noble rot (botrytis), leading to a generous natural residual sugar. In the glass, expect intense aromas of ripe orchard fruits, honey, quince, and a subtle floral elegance, underpinned by a lively freshness that brings structure and length to the wine.

The Anjou-Saumur region sits in the heart of the Loire Valley, a place renowned for its diverse soils and multifaceted microclimates. The Coteaux de la Loire vineyards are often found on gently rolling slopes with schist, limestone, and clay soils, providing excellent drainage and mineral complexity. The maritime-influenced climate is moderated by the Loire River, offering warm days and cool nights, which are ideal for slow grape maturation and the development of the natural sugars necessary for sweet wine styles. With a rich history going back centuries, this area has long been celebrated for its refined, long-lived Chenin Blanc wines, from bone-dry to lusciously sweet.

Anjou moelleux pairs gracefully with a variety of dishes. Classic combinations include foie gras, blue cheeses such as Roquefort or Fourme d’Ambert, or poultry with fruit compotes. Seafood lovers might enjoy it alongside a lobster salad with citrus, while fans of regional cuisine can delight in a tarte Tatin or a goat’s cheese from the Loire. For dessert, fruit-based pastries or a simple poached pear can be sublime partners.

For optimal pleasure, serve this wine slightly chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. Open the bottle shortly before serving to allow the bouquet to unfurl, and enjoy it from medium-sized white wine glasses to best appreciate its aromatic nuances and silky texture. This moelleux can evolve beautifully with a few more years in the cellar but is already captivating today.