Domaine de Châtenoy, nestled in the serene wine region of Menetou-Salon in the Centre-Loire, is a family legacy infused with passion, respect for nature, and a deep love for the art of winemaking. From the moment I arrived, the welcoming charm of the estate was evident, with its timeless 19th-century house standing proudly as a symbol of the family’s heritage and commitment.
The story of the Clément family is one of dedication spanning over four centuries. Their connection to the art of viticulture began in 1560 in Menetou-Salon and has been carefully passed down through generations. Today, Anne and Pierre-Alexandre Clément continue this legacy, blending centuries of tradition with modern winemaking techniques to bring out the finest expressions of their unique terroirs.
At the heart of their craft is a deep respect for the land. Domaine de Châtenoy’s clay-limestone soils in Menetou-Salon provide a perfect foundation for wines of elegance and finesse, while the ‘caillottes’ terroirs of their sister estate, Domaine du Clos Saint Martin in Sancerre, offer a distinct minerality that shines in every bottle. Tradition and modernity work in harmony here, with each step of the winemaking process designed to reveal the character of the terroir and the unique qualities of each vintage.
During my visit, Anne Clément welcomed us warmly and shared her passion for her family’s legacy. She began with a tour of the winery, guiding us through the modern facilities and the historic vaulted cellar, which is still used for special aging. Anne’s enthusiasm for winemaking was evident in every detail she shared, from their organic farming practices to their meticulous attention to crafting wines that reflect their land and heritage.
After the tour, Anne tasted us through several wines, each showcasing the distinct character of the vintage and the region. We began with the 2014 Clément, made from 35–44-year-old vines, which was beautifully balanced with a long finish and racing acidity. The Esca 2015, a traditional, lighter-style Pinot Noir, impressed with its good body and fruity, approachable character. Malolactic fermentation in 3–5-year-old barrels lent a subtle, rounded quality, making it an effortlessly enjoyable wine.
Anne then poured the Tradition 2015, a Pinot Noir crafted from older vines and aged in a mix of new and old barrels. This wine was full-bodied and round, with excellent structure and integrated tannins—a standout for its depth and complexity. The Rosé de Press, made from hand-harvested Pinot Noir, was dry and vibrant, with aromatic, fruity notes and less than 1% residual sugar, making it a refreshing and elegant choice.
The Tradition Menetou-Salon Blanc, a fresh and zippy Sauvignon Blanc, offered a crunchy acidity that was invigorating on the palate. The 2015 Châtenoy Blanc, aged on the lees for 12 months, showcased richness and complexity, with a polished and refined character that came from careful selection of specific vineyard blocks. Finally, the 2010 Sauvignon Blanc was a revelation for being 7 years old. Its long finish and striking acidity were complemented by flavors of bruised apple and pineapple, creating a wine of remarkable depth and elegance.
Walking through the atmospheric vaulted cellar, still used today for special aging, was like stepping into a piece of history. The contrast between this historic space and the modern facilities, designed to meet the highest standards of quality, perfectly encapsulates the estate’s balance between tradition and innovation.
What made this visit unforgettable was not just the technical expertise or the beautifully crafted wines, but the passion that runs through every aspect of Domaine de Châtenoy. Anne and Pierre-Alexandre, following in the footsteps of their parents Isabelle and Pierre, bring an energy and commitment to their work that’s palpable. Their philosophy of respect for nature, biodiversity, and the heritage of the land guides every decision, ensuring that each bottle is a true expression of their terroir and the unique qualities of the vintage.
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