Léo Charruau’s family has been farming in the region since 1722, and the first vintage here at Domaine du Valbrun was by his grandfather in 1983. The family has 30 hectares on clay & limestone soils bordering the Loire River between the communes of Parnay and Souzay-Champigny, while Léo personally farms his own 6½ hectares since 2021, having returned after a few years making wine in Bordeaux.. In recent years, both sets of vineyards have been certified organic.
They say it’s a true ‘climatic enclave’, benefiting from being in the lee of ranges to the west and south-east, protecting from the humid Atlantic weather patterns, resulting in plenty of sunshine and less rain. Low altitude and proximity to the Loire River also help protect against adverse cooler weather patterns.
Léo’s deploys a range of techniques and vessels including amphora, oak barrels and concrete vats, being part of a new generation of experimental younger growers flawlessly marrying tradition with modernity in the style we love.
Coming from the main Domaine du Valbrun stable, this organic AOC Saumur-Champigny is from 35-40 year old Cabernet Franc vines on typical alluvial soils along the Loire. Raised in inox tanks for 8 months, it is a delicate, delightful, expression of 100% Cabernet Franc; cassis and raspberries, beautifully fresh with supple tannins and a smoky finish.