

Domaine de la Guilloterie
Six miles south of the city of Saumur in the Loire Valley lies the Saint-Cyr en Bourg, home of the Duveau family. Since 1835, six generations of the family have farmed vineyards and made wine at Domaine de la Guilloterie. Today, the father and son Patrice and Rémi Duveau’s carry on the family legacy.
The 135.90 acre (55 hectare) estate is nestled in the appellation of Saumur Champigny, named after the village of Champigny. Situated just south of the Loire River, Saumur Champigny is technically part of the province of Anjou, however the wines are more akin to the adjoining province of Touraine to the east. Chenin Blanc was the traditional grape of the region planted on the calcareous rocky soils known as “TUFFEAU.” Chenin Blanc was prone to chlorosis, a condition in which leaves produce insufficient chlorophyll, so in the 1990’s, Cabernet Franc was widely planted. Now Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc are the primary grape varieties of the region where dry and sweet versions of Chenin abound along with bountiful quantities of Crémant from the same grape. Reds and rosés are made from Cabernet Franc.
Reviews
This wine comes from a large estate covering 123 acres. The Duveau family have produced a ripe wine, rich in spice, perfume and smokiness. Red berries and ripe tannins are present in a wine that will age well. Drink from 2023.
Aromas of ripe berries, lemon zest, licorice and leafy herbs. Medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins and a chalky texture. Refined and smooth with delicious spiced red fruit and notes of walnut to close. Impressive length and focus with a delicate finish. 100% cabernet franc. Drink or hold.