SAQ VDP ‘Sans Prise de Tête’ 2023, Éric Chevalier

Follow this link for SAQ: https://www.saq.com/fr/14432710

Effortless rosé!

Muscadet isn't what it used to be… Thankfully for us, by the way.

Even though we aren't talking about Melon de Bourgogne and oblong bottles here, the creator behind this friendly rosé cuvée is quite representative of the Nantes revival and this rising generation of young winemakers.

After having dabbled in wine trading for a decade, in 2005 Éric Chevalier returned to his roots by taking over the family estate, which was already producing in quantity. Since his father was no longer working the vines himself, the vineyard was visibly deteriorating, and in the following years, Éric had to make some serious choices regarding uprooting and replanting.

The result is clearly positive, with an estate that has been organic since 2016, still specializing in Muscadets, but flirting with more precise cuvées than the norm and highlighting Burgundian grape varieties (Chardonnay and Pinot Noir) as well as the nearly extinct Fié Gris.

This is a 100% Cabernet Franc, organic, with 5 months of aging for a simple and effective wine that, even if a bit shy when first opened, will be easy to drink after a little aeration.

To be enjoyed on a whim with impromptu guests.

• To pair with it: Nice slices of prosciutto with melon,
• A bit of trivia: The Fié Gris (Sauvignon Gris) grown on the estate is still only found on about thirty hectares in the Loire. It is used to make richer white wines but also sweet wines.
• To better understand the Loire: Sign up for the waiting list for the workshop on the subject this autumn.
• To explore the house, the Éric Chevalier ‘Clos de la Butte’ Muscadet 2021 for $24 at the SAQ (12686831)