Xavier Weisskopf established Domaine Rocher des Violettes in 2005. He was born in the Oise region in 1979 and trained as a winegrower in Chablis. He continued his apprenticeship in Beaune where he became cellar master at Gigondas before creating his own property. His vineyard parcels are dotted around the commune of Saint-Martin-Le-Beau with 9 hectares in Montlouis and 4 hectares in the Touraine AOP. The vines are mature in age and Xavier Weisskopf does not use chemical fertilisers or products. Harvests are carried out by hand and every effort is made to limit oxidation and to preserve the wines’ integrity. If you have not already done so, it is well worth trying these wines which are currently superb.

Located between the Loire Valley and the Cher Valley near Tours, the 40-year-old Chenin Blanc vines are cultivated using organic methods. This variety is emblematic of this naturally fertile and delicate region with its continental and oceanic climates. Each vine is pruned using the Guyot method. This productive pruning technique aims to keep only the most fertile buds. Once the grapes are harvested by hand, they are sorted several times before being vinified and fermented at low temperatures in stainless-steel tanks for around two months. The wine is then bottled. During this stage, the native yeast will take over to consume the remaining sugars and produce carbon dioxide. The cuvée rests for 28 months on oak staves before being disgorged and then fitted with a wire cap, without any additional sugar and yeast cells.
The vibrant nose opens with aromas of yellow fruit and vanilla. The palate boasts full-bodied notes of fruit mixed with a refined effervescence.