Classic, citrus-zipped, dry Chenin Blanc, from a true specialist and the top appellation of Savennières. Philippe Socheleau uses grapes from his finest vineyards, situated in two valleys. Lees ageing lends creamy weight to its intense lemon fruit.
The Socheleau family are relatively new to wine, but they've learnt fast. Réne Socheleau was an apple grower, but his son Philippe was looking for a new direction. So, in 2001, they purchased Domaine des Deux Vallées with proceeds from selling their apple orchards. One of the first things they did was to rip out the plantings of Sauvignon and Chardonnay. This is fine wine territory for Chenin Blanc. Their vineyards lie on two main terroirs (hence the name Deux Vallées). The first is on the slopes between the Loire and the Layon; the second is around the village of Saint Lambert du Latay. Aged on fine lees for six months, this is a rich, rounded, yet intensely citrusy white, with light smoke notes and minerality. A superb dinner party wine.
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