2022 Château Yvonne Saumur-Champigny Rouge, Loire Valley, France

ABOUT THE WINE

The 2022 Saumur-Champigny is made from biodynamically farmed Cabernet Franc grown on limestone and clay soils near Parnay, where vines average over 40 years of age. Château Yvonne works entirely by hand in the vineyard, using cover crops, composts, and no synthetic inputs to foster soil vitality and vine balance. Fermentation is spontaneous with native yeasts in concrete and wooden vats, followed by aging in used barrels for 12 months.

This vintage is especially pure and aromatic, showing the finesse of the cooler 2022 growing season. It’s a wine of clarity and poise—more floral and mineral than overtly fruity. Perfect with dishes like roast guinea fowl, lentils with rosemary, grilled pork, or soft-ripened goat cheese.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

Château Yvonne is a small, historic estate in Parnay, within the Saumur-Champigny appellation, and has been under the stewardship of Mathieu Vallée since 2007. With just under 12 hectares under vine, the domaine is fully biodynamic and meticulously tended.

Mathieu's philosophy emphasizes purity, precision, and the expression of place, with minimal intervention and restrained use of oak in the cellar. His wines—both red and white—are now considered among the finest in the Loire Valley. The Saumur-Champigny Rouge is a standout each year, offering both age-worthy structure and immediate elegance, making it a favorite of sommeliers and collectors alike.