Domaine Lavigne is a family-run winery, now in the hands of the third generation. Since 2009, the domain has been run by Pascale Lavigne and her husband, Antoine Véron (daughter and son-in-law) of Gilbert Lavigne. Based in Varrains in Saumur-Champigny, they own 42 hectares of vineyard (40 hectares of Cabernet Franc and two of Chenin Blanc). They cultivate their land sustainably and they been proactively involved in a weather tower project, which has endeavoured to help the entire Saumur appellation.
Produced with the utmost care and attention, Domaine Lavigne has a solid reputation for producing high quality, terroir-driven wines. The vines have an average age of 35 years; the older vines have low vigour and produce wines with concentration, complexity and depth. The aim is to keep the treatments used in the vineyards to a minimum, due to accurate forecasting and prevention of damaging rains and fogs. Using minimal chemical treatments and allowing sustainable methods, such as growing grasses and plants between the vines to naturally control weeds helps the conservation of the soil and soil water management. The vines are grown in clay and chalk soils.
This Saumur Champigny is made in an unoaked style in order to fully express the purity of fruit. A silky Cabernet Franc, nicely structured around a palate of black currant and raspberry, with hints of graphite. Supple and generous with a refreshing finish. Can be served slightly chilled – between 12 to 14°C and enjoyed young.