NV Louis de Grenelle Crémant de Loire Brut, Loire Valley, France

ABOUT THIS WINE

A blend of 34% Chenin Blanc, 33% Chardonnay, and 33% Cabernet Franc.  The base wines are all fermented in stainless steel and depending on the Cuvée, spend from 12 months to 7 years on lees in bottle before disgorgement. Through the House’s close working relationships with its growers, fruit is sourced from vineyards around the Saumur region, from the towns and villages of Saumur itself, Montreuil-Bellay, Le Puy Notre Dame, Martigné-Briand, Cléré-sur-Layon and Nueil-sur-Layon.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Each great House is born from expertise that has been passed down as a precious secret from generation to generation. A descendant of Houses Tessier (1859) and then Bassereau (1942), Maison Louis de Grenelle has passionately carried the emotion that its wines have aroused for more than a century and a half. It is the very last family owned house in Saumur and has chosen to keep putting its faith in the cellars carved out of tuffeau to protect the “fines bulles” sparkling wines that it crafts with delicate, refined and complex styles.

In 1976, visionary winemaker Hubert Bodet and two business partners took over a cellar in decline contrary to everyone's advice. However, time would eventually prove those who “Dare, work and never give up” (X.Dolan) right.

In 2009, Hubert Bodet handed over the reins to his daughter, Françoise Flao, who has been involved in the management of the company since 1983, and his son-in-law, Jean Pierre Flao, so they could instil their passion and breathe new life into proceedings.

Also inheriting a long-term vision, Françoise Flao plans for the future by focusing on leveraging the artisanal expertise of the winemakers while incorporating touches of modernity and innovation. She continues to favour the path of quality, reinforcing the distinctive Louis de Grenelle style over the years without ever compromising the spirit of the House, which forges close bonds with and helps growers.