Winemaker Wednesday: Domaine Chavet
This week we hear from the Chavet family, who has been growing grapes for centuries in Menetou-Salon at Domaine Chavet.
Tell us about your property (how long it has been in your family, how long you have been making wine there, the size, any growing philosophy you might have):
In the Loire Valley, our family has been growing grapes for generations (since the 17th century), cultivating the vine in the heart of Menetou-Salon. Transitioning from father to son, we have developed a unique knowledge and mastery of viticulture and winemaking. The resulting quality of our products is reflected in numerous awards in prestigious competitions.
Today, with a domaine of 25 hectares, our company is moving forward and investing in modern facilities to meet current standards. “Winemakers by nature” is our family’s motto. Our passion is to produce quality wines with respect for tradition and nature.
We are the first vineyard in the region to be certified Agriculture Raisonée, or farmed sustainably, and Quali’terre, an agricultural quality assurance scheme that is an adaptation of the HACCP methodology.
What is your favorite vintage and cuvee from your own property and why?
The white 2010 Menetou-Salon Cuvée Tradition from Sauvignon Blanc is not expressed anywhere else with such clarity and finesse than its terroir, the Loire Valley, where it originates.
This Menetou-Salon, with exemplary clarity and a fine, pleasant nose evokes aromas of citrus, apricots and white flowers, lifted by subtle vegetable notes. With characteristic freshness, its attractive roundness, and impeccable structure and balance, it’s a perfect food wine. It has great elegance and refinement, filling the palate of even the most demanding wine drinker.
When you are not drinking your own wines, what are you drinking? What other wines, beers, etc. do you enjoy?
The palette of French wines is very vast and varied that we look to enjoy and be surprised with wines produced by our fellow winemakers. But, during trips abroad, we also like to discover the wines produced outside of France, such as Lebanon.
What is your favorite food and what wine would you pair it with?
With no doubt: a beef filet in pastry crust, with a foie gras sauce, accompanied by a red Menetou-Salon Rouge Cuvée Exception, made from Pinot Noir. Otherwise, a lobster served with russet potatoes and a vanilla butter, which pairs perfectly with a white 2009 Menetou-Salon Exception.