Lydia et Thierry Chancelle, Saumur-Champigny, Loire Valley, France 2023
Pickup available at DECANT Napa - 2999 Solano, Napa, CA
Usually ready in 1 hour
This husband-and-wife team farms just outside the historic village of Chacé in Saumur-Champigny, where Thierry’s family has cultivated vines for generations. Working with old vines rooted in tuffeau limestone, the Chancelles are known for making pure, expressive Cabernet Francs that emphasize fruit clarity, mineral tension, and balance. Their wines capture the freshness of the region without sacrificing depth or structure, all while embracing a low-intervention, organic approach.
-
WINEMAKER: Thierry Chancelle
-
FARMING: Certified Organic
-
VARIETY: 100% Cabernet Franc
-
TERROIR: From vineyards surrounding the village of Chacé, planted on classic Saumur-Champigny soils—chalky tuffeau limestone with topsoil of clay and sand. The cool climate and excellent drainage of the site contribute to vibrant, structured wines.
-
VINIFICATION: Hand-harvested. Fermentation with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks. Gentle extraction and temperature control to preserve aromatic lift and freshness.
-
AGING: Aged in stainless steel for several months on fine lees to retain purity and freshness.
-
TASTING NOTES: Aromas of red currant, violets, and green herbs lead to a juicy, mineral-driven palate with notes of raspberry, graphite, and subtle spice. Fine tannins and bright acidity provide a clean, savory finish.
-
FOOD PAIRINGS: Charcuterie, roast chicken, lentil stew, grilled vegetables, goat cheese.
This husband-and-wife team farms just outside the historic village of Chacé in Saumur-Champigny, where Thierry’s family has cultivated vines for generations. Working with old vines rooted in tuffeau limestone, the Chancelles are known for making pure, expressive Cabernet Francs that emphasize fruit clarity, mineral tension, and balance. Their wines capture the freshness of the region without sacrificing depth or structure, all while embracing a low-intervention, organic approach.
-
WINEMAKER: Thierry Chancelle
-
FARMING: Certified Organic
-
VARIETY: 100% Cabernet Franc
-
TERROIR: From vineyards surrounding the village of Chacé, planted on classic Saumur-Champigny soils—chalky tuffeau limestone with topsoil of clay and sand. The cool climate and excellent drainage of the site contribute to vibrant, structured wines.
-
VINIFICATION: Hand-harvested. Fermentation with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks. Gentle extraction and temperature control to preserve aromatic lift and freshness.
-
AGING: Aged in stainless steel for several months on fine lees to retain purity and freshness.
-
TASTING NOTES: Aromas of red currant, violets, and green herbs lead to a juicy, mineral-driven palate with notes of raspberry, graphite, and subtle spice. Fine tannins and bright acidity provide a clean, savory finish.
-
FOOD PAIRINGS: Charcuterie, roast chicken, lentil stew, grilled vegetables, goat cheese.