Grape: Pineau d’Aunis
Region: Coteaux du Vendomois, France
Farming: Organic
Owned by Jean Braziler along with his son Benoît, who represents the seventh generation of Braziliers to have worked vineyards in Thoré-la-Rochette. He joined his father in 1997 and although only in his mid-thirties is the current head of the local wine growers syndicate. Together, they farm 25 hectares of vines, a significant holding in these parts. Ten of these are family owned and mostly replanted by Jean himself over the past 25 years. In total, fifteen hectares are under the appellation Coteaux du Vendômois, but they also produce Vin de Pays using Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and some Gamay. For the appellation wines, they tend four hectares of Chenin Blanc, five of Pineau d’Aunis and seven of Cabernet Franc. There are also a couple of hectares of Pinot Noir planted too. The vineyard is entirely grown organically. Jean, the father is still involved but his son Benoit is making the wines. All of their wine is produced in caves carved out of the limestone hillsides during the 12th century.
Food Pairing: Lighter fare like fresh salads, sushi, soft cheese or seafood.