# Cuvée de Perruches

- **Producer:** Bernard Fouquet, Domaine des Aubuisières
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** 100% Chenin Blanc
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €17
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 6–8 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, pear, quince, honey, mineral

## About this wine

Cuvée de Perruches is a still white wine from the Vouvray AOC in France's Loire Valley, produced by Bernard Fouquet at Domaine des Aubuisières. The wine is made from 100% Chenin Blanc, a grape variety that thrives in Vouvray's distinct terroirs. The name 'Cuvée de Perruches' highlights the specific soil composition of flinty clay and silica where these grapes are grown, contributing a characteristic minerality. Bernard Fouquet, a significant producer in the region, was known for his dedication to natural winemaking principles. In 2021, the domaine transitioned to new ownership under Charles Lesaffre, continuing the estate's legacy. The winemaking process involves hand-harvesting, fermentation with indigenous yeasts, and a unique aging process that includes both oak barrels and traditional glass-lined vats carved into the local rock.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Cuvée de Perruches' refers to the flinty clay and silica soil, known locally as perruches.
- Bernard Fouquet retired in 2021, passing the domaine to Charles Lesaffre.
- Fermentation occurs partly in oak and partly in traditional glass-lined vats cut into rock.
- Chenin Blanc is also known locally as Pineau de la Loire.

## Food pairing

The wine's high acidity cuts through rich sauces and fatty proteins, while its minerality complements delicate seafood. The subtle fruit notes can echo or contrast with herbal elements in dishes.

## Wine making process

The production of Cuvée de Perruches begins with hand-harvested 100% Chenin Blanc grapes. Fermentation is a key step, utilizing indigenous yeasts and occurring in two distinct environments: part in oak barrels and part in traditional glass-lined vats cut into the local rock. This contrasts with other cuvées from the domaine that might use stainless steel. The wine undergoes aging in these vessels, allowing for the development of its characteristic profile. The domaine also emphasizes sustainable viticulture, including maintaining grass cover in the vineyards to foster biodiversity.