Wisdom of the Soils

The year 2020 marked the beginning of the adventure for Sagesse des Sols, a story led by Cathy and Fred. For Fred, this adventure represents the metamorphosis of the family vineyard located in Anjou, a transformation towards organic viticulture. The vines, where grape varieties such as Grolleau, Chenin, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pineau d'Aunis grow, some of which are more than 50 years old, have forged his passion for taste and made grapes his favorite fruit. Among all, his favorite is Grolleau, with its delicious, gourmet and juicy side.
For Cathy, this adventure is above all a passion for flavors and colors. Her childhood spent in the world of vegetable production, her studies in Bordeaux and her experience in winemaking in Lebanon, South Africa and Australia have shaped her into an informed taster. Always eager for discoveries, she devotes time and attention to highlighting the pleasures of everyday life through her photographs.
The Sagesse des Sols estate carries out meticulous work in the vines to reveal the multiple terroirs located less than a kilometer from the cellar. They grow Loire grape varieties such as Chenin as well as local varieties from Anjou, notably Grolleau and Pineau d'Aunis. From pruning the vines to working the soil, including tasting the berries before the harvest, Cathy and Fred's approach aims to favor the fruit, freshness and balance of the wine.
The vineyard extends over sandy shales crossed by localized quartz veins, overlooking the Layon. The clay-sandy subsoil gives deep freshness, giving the wines the desired balance and freshness. To maintain this autonomy, the soil is enriched with manure from locally raised cattle and covered with fava beans and oats. The hares particularly delight in the fava bean while finding a protective shelter among the vines.
Their vintages, of great finesse, deserve to be tasted. In particular, their vintage “Toucher Terre,” a Chenin vinified for 12 months in barrels, from the place called “Les Ruaux,” is a favorite. Sharp and airy, with subtle woody notes, this complex Chenin offers superb persistence on the palate, a taste experience that will take you to heights of pleasure.