# Saumur-Champigny Rouge "Les Bas Poyeux" (2022)

- **Producer:** Fabien Duveau
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Franc
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, graphite, black plum, black cherry, red cherry

## About this wine

Les Bas Poyeux Saumur-Champigny 2022 is a single-vineyard red wine from Fabien Duveau, an eighth-generation winemaker in the Loire Valley's Saumur-Champigny appellation. The wine originates from the 'Les Bas Poyeux' parcel in Chacé, characterized by shallow sandy soils over clay and limestone. Fabien Duveau is recognized for his meticulous approach to viticulture, employing certified organic and biodynamic farming practices, including regenerative agriculture. The 'Poyeux' vineyard itself holds historical importance in the Saumur region. Duveau is noted for his pioneering distinction between the 'Haut Poyeux' and 'Bas Poyeux' parcels, highlighting the influence of soil composition, elevation, and orientation on the resulting wines.

## Interesting facts

- Fabien Duveau is the first to differentiate between 'Haut Poyeux' and 'Bas Poyeux' vineyard parcels.
- Vines in 'Les Bas Poyeux' were planted in 1960.
- The estate employs regenerative agriculture, including sheep for eco-pasturing.
- The 'Poyeux' vineyard has historical significance, noted since 1802.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and balanced tannins complement the protein in red meats, while its freshness cuts through richer sauces. Herbal notes in the wine can echo herbs used in cooking, creating a harmonious bridge.

## Wine making process

Les Bas Poyeux Saumur-Champigny 2022 is produced by Fabien Duveau using 100% destemmed Cabernet Franc grapes. Fermentation occurs with indigenous yeasts in tanks. The wine undergoes aging for 10 months, with half of the production maturing in tank and the other half in barrels. This approach aims to capture the essence of the 'Les Bas Poyeux' vineyard, reflecting Duveau's commitment to organic, biodynamic, and regenerative farming practices. The estate also incorporates innovative vineyard management, such as differentiating between specific vineyard parcels based on their unique soil and microclimatic conditions.