# Pigments (2024)

- **Producer:** Racêmes
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chenin Blanc
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €36
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 6–8 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** green fruit, citrus, stone fruit, yeast

## About this wine

Pigments by Racêmes is a 2024 Vin de France, a naturally sparkling white wine made from 100% Chenin Blanc. The wine originates from the Loire Valley, specifically from the Montlouis-sur-Loire area, known for its schist soils. Racêmes is a new wine project founded in 2023 by Arthur Hutin and Roman Opelik, who partner with organic grape growers. Their philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention, native yeast fermentation, and capturing the unique character of each vintage and terroir. This particular wine is produced using the ancestral method, a traditional technique for creating sparkling wines with natural effervescence.

## Interesting facts

- A Pét-Nat, meaning it's naturally sparkling and unfiltered.
- Made using the 'ancestral method' dating back centuries.
- Certified Organic grapes from old vines.
- No added sulphites for a pure expression.

## Food pairing

The wine's crisp acidity and natural effervescence cut through richness and cleanse the palate, making it ideal for seafood and creamy dishes. Its subtle minerality complements the brininess of oysters and the earthiness of goat cheese.

## Wine making process

Pigments by Racêmes is produced using the ancestral method, a traditional technique for creating naturally sparkling wines. The process begins with a direct press of whole Chenin Blanc grape clusters. Fermentation is initiated with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks and then completed in the bottle, creating the wine's signature effervescence. The wine is intentionally unfiltered and bottled without any added sulphites, reflecting Racêmes' commitment to minimal intervention and a pure expression of the grape and terroir. The grapes are sourced from old vines cultivated on schist soils, contributing to the wine's distinct character.