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.

Le Grand Poirie is made with Chenin. It is gold in colour and driven by its fruity and mineral notes, with hints of blood orange, mandarin, roast pear and a touch of smoke. The supple palate is balanced by its minerality which also gives it vivacity, chalky notes and a saline finish.