Les Vieux Clos 2023, Château de la Roche au Moine

Les Vieux Clos 2023, Château de la Roche au Moine

Château de la Roche aux Moines is a distinguished wine estate located in the Savennières appellation of the Loire Valley, France. Renowned for its exceptional Chenin Blanc wines, the estate holds a prominent position within the Savennières-Roche aux Moines AOC, a designation celebrated for producing some of the region’s most esteemed white wines.

Historical Significance

The vineyards of Château de la Roche aux Moines trace their origins back to the Middle Ages, historically associated with the Abbaye Saint-Nicolas d’Angers. This long-standing heritage underscores the estate’s deep-rooted connection to the Loire Valley’s viticultural traditions. The name “Roche aux Moines,” translating to “Rock of the Monks,” reflects this monastic influence and the vineyard’s storied past.

Vineyard and Terroir

Perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Loire River near Savennières, the estate benefits from an ideal exposure that enhances grape maturation. The unique terroir, characterized by schist and volcanic soils, imparts distinctive mineral qualities to the wines, contributing to their complexity and aging potential.

Biodynamic Practices

Under the stewardship of Nicolas Joly, a pioneer of biodynamic viticulture, Château de la Roche aux Moines has embraced organic and biodynamic farming methods since the early 1980s. Joly’s commitment to these practices stems from his belief that they enhance the expression of terroir and produce wines of greater authenticity and vitality. The estate has been fully certified by Ecocert since 1987 and by Demeter since 2008, reflecting its dedication to sustainable and holistic vineyard management.

Wine Portfolio

The estate’s flagship offering is its Savennières-Roche aux Moines white wine, crafted exclusively from Chenin Blanc grapes. This wine is celebrated for its complexity, balance, and remarkable aging potential. Tasting notes often highlight aromas of ripe melon, fresh vanilla, and pronounced minerality. On the palate, it presents a rich texture with flavors of exotic fruits and spices, culminating in a long, fresh, and complex finish. The estate’s commitment to low yields and meticulous vineyard management ensures that each bottle reflects the unique characteristics of its terroir.

Château de la Roche aux Moines has garnered significant acclaim within the wine community. For instance, the 2018 vintage received a 95/100 rating and a gold medal from Decanter, while James Suckling, a renowned American wine critic, awarded it a 96/100, underscoring its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. ​

Château de la Roche aux Moines stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of historical heritage and innovative viticulture. Its unwavering commitment to biodynamic principles and the production of high-quality Chenin Blanc wines has solidified its reputation as a jewel of the Loire Valley. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, the estate’s offerings provide a profound and authentic expression of one of France’s most esteemed wine regions.