Plaisance, Chateau de
Summary
Chateau de Plaisance is a biodynamic estate in Anjou's Rochefort-sur-Loire, focusing primarily on Chenin Blanc from schist-dominant soils in prestigious vineyard sites including Chaume and Quarts de Chaume. Under Vanessa Cherruau's leadership since 2019, the estate maintains its Demeter certification and minimal-intervention winemaking approach, establishing it as a quality benchmark for Loire Valley wines that authentically express the distinctive character of the Anjou appellation.
Heritage & Leadership
Chateau de Plaisance, situated in Rochefort-sur-Loire in the Anjou region of France's Loire Valley, has established itself as a respected producer of biodynamic wines. The estate underwent a significant transition in 2019 when Vanessa Cherruau took over ownership and management from Claude Papin, who had guided the domaine for several decades. Under Papin's stewardship, the estate built a reputation for quality-focused viticulture and winemaking in the Anjou appellation. Cherruau has maintained continuity while bringing her own perspective to the estate's operations, preserving the biodynamic practices that have become fundamental to the chateau's identity.
Vineyards & Wines
Chateau de Plaisance's vineyards are located in the Anjou appellation of the Loire Valley, with parcels in the prestigious Chaume and Quarts de Chaume areas. The estate focuses primarily on Chenin Blanc for its white wine production, taking advantage of the grape's affinity for the local terroir. For red wines, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon are the principal varieties cultivated. The vineyards are characterized by schist-dominant soils, which contribute mineral complexity to the wines. The estate's commitment to biodynamic farming, certified by Demeter, reflects a dedication to expressing the distinctive characteristics of these vineyard sites through minimal intervention in both the vineyard and cellar.
Philosophy & Practice
Biodynamic principles form the cornerstone of Chateau de Plaisance's approach to viticulture and winemaking. The estate holds Demeter certification, adhering to the strict standards of biodynamic agriculture that prohibit synthetic chemicals and emphasize the vineyard as a self-sustaining ecosystem. In the cellar, the philosophy extends to natural winemaking practices, with hand harvesting ensuring careful selection of fruit. This approach aims to produce wines that authentically reflect their origin while minimizing technological intervention. The estate's dedication to these methods demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship and the preservation of traditional winemaking practices in the Loire Valley.