Discover the elegance and complexity of Domaine des Forges, Coteaux du Layon Saint Aubin, a striking expression of the Loire Valley's world-class Chenin Blanc. Crafted by the Branchereau family, whose winemaking heritage spans five generations, this wine hails from sustainably managed vineyards in the commune of Saint Aubin de Luigne, just south of Angers. The vines here, many on steep schist slopes, benefit from cool misty mornings and sunny afternoons, creating the ideal conditions for the precious noble rot that lends this wine its remarkable concentration and sweetness. Sustainable viticulture and meticulous hand-harvesting ensure only the finest bunches are selected, capturing the unique terroir of schist and carboniferous soils in every bottle. Expertly vinified, the grapes are gently pressed and fermented with indigenous yeasts, followed by an arrest of fermentation using a crossflow filter to preserve both the purity of fruit and a luscious sweetness. The result is a beautifully balanced sweet wine, vegan-friendly and showcasing the extraordinary potential of Chenin Blanc from this charismatic Loire subregion.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Bright and shimmering in the glass, this wine presents a golden hue that reflects its richness and concentration.
Nose:
The aromatic profile enchants from the outset, offering vibrant notes of lemon meringue and barley sugar, followed by layered scents of exotic fruits and dried apricot. As it opens, subtle hints of honey and mineral undertones emerge, giving depth and intrigue.
Palate:
On the palate, layers of ripe tropical fruit and glazed citrus unfold in perfect harmony with the hallmark sweetness. A lively freshness and well-integrated acidity deliver balance, preventing any sense of heaviness and keeping the wine beautifully vibrant. Rich and full-flavoured, each sip is underpinned by concentrated fruit reflecting the low-yielding, mature vines.
Finish:
The finish is long, persistent, and complex, echoing mineral notes and leaving a lingering impression of sweetness delicately offset by refreshing acidity. Domaine des Forges, Coteaux du Layon Saint Aubin is an exceptional sweet wine that captures both the essence of its terroir and the expertise of its makers-an unforgettable experience for lovers of fine French dessert wines.
