Filliatreau

Domaine Filliatreau, an estate of about 50 hectares located near the city of Saumur, is run by the father and son team of Paul and Frederik Filliatreau. The estate has excellent holdings, particularly the Grande Vignolle vineyard, situated atop a tufa-stone outcrop that runs along the Loire river. The soft, limestone-rich tufa (perfect for the distinct cave dwellings below the vineyards) lends the Cabernet Franc grapes juicy flavors and good acidity. While all of the vineyards are managed along organic lines, the 6.5 hectare Chateau Fouquet vineyard warrants special mention as it has been converted to biodynamic viticulture. New to the market is the 2010 Saumur Blanc, a 100% Chenin Blanc cuvee with a short maceration on the skins. It’s dry, nutty flavors offer tremendous complexity for the price.