# Hélianthème (2023)

- **Producer:** Domaine des Grouas
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chenin Blanc
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 10.5%
- **Average price:** €18
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blossom, lemon, grapefruit, apple, pear

## About this wine

Domaine des Grouas was established in July 2022 by Lionel and Pauline Sain Hupolox in Martigné-Briand, Loire Valley. Situated at the geological crossroads of 'Anjou Noir' (schist) and 'Anjou Blanc' (limestone), the estate focuses on organic and biodynamic viticulture. Lionel transitioned from digital consulting to winemaking, training under legendary Loire masters like Domaine de Bellivière, Terre de l'Élu, and Domaine Emmanuel Ogereau. 'Hélianthème' is named after the wild rock rose flower that grows in their biodiverse vineyards.

## Interesting facts

- Named after the Helianthemum (rock rose) flower, which translates from Greek as 'flower that turns with the sun.'
- Winemaker Lionel Hupolox transitioned from a career in digital project management to follow his passion for viticulture.
- This cuvée acts as a sibling to the estate's flagship bottling from the legendary Les Onglés schist hillside.

## Food pairing

This high-acid, light-bodied Chenin Blanc thrives alongside fresh seafood, raw preparations, and dishes with clean, mineral profiles. Its vibrant acidity cuts through the brininess of shellfish and complements citrus-driven dishes like ceviche, while its low alcohol ensures it doesn't overpower delicate textures.

## Wine making process

Crafted from 100% Chenin Blanc grown on schist soils. The grapes are manually harvested and directly pressed. Fermentation occurs spontaneously with indigenous yeasts. The wine is aged for 20 months in a combination of stainless steel vats and oak barrels. It is bottled unfined and unfiltered with minimal sulfur additions (total SO2 of 42 mg/l), preserving its natural tension and purity.