# You & Me

- **Producer:** Laurent Saillard
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chenin Blanc
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.8%
- **Average price:** €25
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** pear, apple, lemon, quince

## About this wine

Laurent Saillard's 'You & Me' is a captivating expression of Loire Valley Chenin Blanc, crafted by a winemaker with a unique journey. After years immersed in the vibrant restaurant scene of New York, Laurent returned to his native France in 2008. He honed his craft under the tutelage of esteemed Loire producer Noëlla Morantin, learning the intricacies of natural winemaking from vineyard to cellar. In 2012, he launched his own label, and in 2014, he took over the historic vineyards of the legendary Clos Roche Blanche. His philosophy centers on creating wines that are both 'juicy and delicious' yet possess an underlying 'serious' character, reflecting the unique terroir and his minimal intervention approach.

## Interesting facts

- Laurent Saillard was a restaurateur in New York before becoming a Loire Valley winemaker.
- He learned natural winemaking from the renowned Loire producer Noëlla Morantin.
- Saillard now cultivates the historic vineyards of the legendary Clos Roche Blanche.
- His wines are described as 'juicy and delicious, but always with an element of something more serious'.

## Food pairing

The vibrant acidity and pronounced minerality of this Chenin Blanc make it an excellent partner for a range of dishes. It beautifully cuts through richness, cleanses the palate, and complements fresh, delicate flavors. Its subtle fruit notes harmonize with seafood, poultry, and fresh cheeses, while its mineral backbone stands up to savory herbs and citrus.

## Wine making process

The winemaking for 'You & Me' by Laurent Saillard is firmly rooted in natural and low-intervention principles. The vineyards, located on an elevated plateau and surrounded by forest, are farmed sustainably. In the cellar, the process is kept as hands-off as possible, featuring spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts. The wine sees no added sulphur (specifically noted for the 2023 vintage), nor is it subjected to fining or filtration, ensuring a pure expression of the fruit and terroir. Aging takes place in old barrels or vats, allowing the wine to develop complexity without overt oak influence.