Domaine Aux Moines

Savennières

Founded in 1981 by Monique Laroche, the history of these vineyards dates back to the middle ages when the vines were planted and tended by the monks (les moines) of Abbaye de St Nicolas. Domaine Aux Moines is in Anjou. Currently, Tessa Laroche, daughter of Monique, manages the 12ha of vineyards all in the appellation Roche Aux Moines, next to the famed Coulée de Serrant. Beautiful hillside vineyards overlooking the Loire River face south/southwest and are mostly planted of Chenin Blanc. Certified organic and also biodynamic, the vines grow on soils of hard schist with sandstone & clay, which contribute to the Chenin having a flinty and drier character. Harvest is done in multiple passes through the vines by hand and yields are kept low. Wines are all fermented with indigenous yeasts and aging is a combined use of tank and oak barrels. Through the diligent and meticulous work of Tessa and her team, the wines of Domaine Aux Moines are superb, displaying both quality and longevity found with many great wines.