Château de Plaisance: Elevating Anjou Wines with Chenin Blanc Excellence

Château de Plaisance: Elevating Anjou Wines with Chenin Blanc Excellence.

Anjou, nestled in the picturesque Loire Valley of France, is a region of rolling hills, captivating landscapes, and a rich historical legacy. Over the past 15 years, Anjou has undergone remarkable development, solidifying its reputation as an ideal area for crafting high-quality wines.

The region stands out within the Loire Valley for its diverse wine styles and grape varieties, offering greater variety than any other area in the valley. Among its many offerings, Anjou is particularly renowned for its exceptional sweet white wines, which hold a leading position in its production portfolio.

Château de Plaisance, located in the village of Rochefort-sur-Loire, stands out in the region with its bold embrace of change. In a recent interview, owner and winemaker Vanessa Cherruau shared how these ambitious projects are rapidly reaching impressive new heights.

Château de Plaisance

Situated in the heart of Anjou Noir, on the terroirs of Chaume, Quart de Chaume and Savennières, organic farming since 1995 and biodynamic since 2008, Plaisance is a rarity. A self-acclaimed unconscious dream of mainly Chenin Blanc (80%) that started in 2019 by Angers native Vanessa Cherruau. Taken over from the Rochais family (who have owned the farm since 1960) the 1000-year-old terroir promised potential and was the start of a crazy project.

Vanessa, becoming a winemaker and owning her own vineyard was not that obvious since her parents are not in the wine business. Her interest in wine grew and became very quickly a true passion. She considers herself lucky because from the beginning she met the likes of very interesting people from Clos Rougeard, Thierry Germain, Antoine Sanzay and Romain Guiberteau from Saumur and others. Passionate about wine, terroir, and the very first who showed the way in Anjou and especially showing the way that Anjou can be a very high-qualitative terroir. Watching the pioneers like Richard Leroy and people from Savennières, it became clear that Vanessa wanted to follow her own path. Creating with Château Plaisance – in the sweet wine area of Chaume and Quarts-de-Chaume – a dry version of this terroir.

Vanessa Cherruau in her vineyards.
Vanessa Cherruau in her vineyards.

Where Dreams come True

Vanessa fell in love with the untapped potential of Château de Plaisance, a stunning estate nestled on the south-facing slopes surrounding the hill of Chaume and the renowned Quarts-de-Chaume. Overlooking the Layon Valley, this unique vineyard comprises a single block rich in diverse and fascinating terroirs. The true rarity of Château de Plaisance lies in its exceptional plots, where Chenin Blanc thrives in soils of schist, spilite, sandstone, and puddingstone. Of the estate’s 25 hectares, 20 are dedicated to Chenin Blanc, while the remaining 5 hectares are evenly divided between Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Château de Plaisance in Anjou.
Château de Plaisance in Anjou.

Listen to the Vines

Throughout the year, Vanessa and her team make sure to accompany the vines with kindness, never rushing them, always listening to them, respecting their rhythm and that of the moon cycles. Without prejudice, there are no rules, they adapt their techniques for each plot, and serving as a draft for their control plots, which do not receive any intervention. Observation is their only guide.

In her own words: ‘We cultivate doubt, uncertainty and constant questioning as a tool to achieve the best in our eyes’

In the vineyard, pruning is done in the Bourdarias method to respect the flow of sap, control the load of the vine, avoid pile up. The team practices meticulous de-budding and leaf stripping if necessary.

For the soil, the choice is life.  Work is done at a minimum between rows to promote ambient biodiversity. Lay the grass down, mulch naturally, protect rather than turn the earth. Let the flora and fauna express themselves: nature as the main means of protection.

All this work allows Château de Plaisance to obtain the healthiest grapes possible, to harvest each bunch at the right maturity, 100% manually. Château de Plaisance wines are an expression of the terroir from which they come. All the cuvées are vinified naturally, without any brutal intervention and without any input (except for micro-doses of sulfur).

Harvest in the Vineyards of Château de Plaisance.
Harvest in the Vineyards of Château de Plaisance.



The Wines


Château de Plaisance produces 11 different cuvées. The leading role is taken by Chenin Cru’s, to produce dry wines. Next to that there are two red cuvées with Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. A bubble and of course a small selection of great sweet wines, only produced in exceptional years, complete the portfolio.

We had the opportunity to taste a selection of the wines, below you will find our reviews and ratings.

The Wine Selection for the Tasting and our Ratings.
The Wine Selection for the Tasting and our Ratings.

2022 ‘l Anjou Blanc | 100% Chenin Blanc

The 2022 ‘l Anjou Blanc is a delightful representation of modern Anjou winemaking, highlighting the region’s ongoing transformation into a hub for high-quality wines. Crafted from Chenin Blanc grown on shale soils, this wine benefits from careful vineyard practices, including manual harvesting in crates, ensuring only the finest fruit is selected. 

In the cellar, slow cold pressing and fermentation with native yeasts preserve the wine’s freshness and vibrancy, while partial malolactic fermentation adds a touch of roundness. Aging for 11 months in stainless steel vats allows the wine to maintain its pure and youthful character, free from the influence of oak.

On the nose, this wine is bright and inviting, offering aromas of crisp green apple, lemon zest, and white peach, complemented by subtle floral undertones and a hint of wet stone minerality. 

The palate is equally fresh and lively, showcasing a delicate balance of flavors. Juicy citrus fruits, such as lime and grapefruit, take center stage, while hints of pear and a gentle touch of honeyed chamomile add complexity. The wine’s light body and zesty acidity make it incredibly approachable, perfect for casual enjoyment or as an aperitif.

The finish is clean and refreshing, with a lingering minerality that reflects its shale soil origins. The 2022 ‘l Anjou Blanc is a youthful and uncomplicated wine that captures the spirit of Anjou’s evolution, offering an easy-drinking yet high-quality experience. 

We award this wine with a 90-point DWA score.

2022 Ronceray | 100% Chenin Blanc

The 2022 Ronceray is a captivating expression of Chenin Blanc, showcasing the exceptional terroir of the Chaume hill. This vineyard, perched at the top of the hill, boasts soils of schist, spilite, and sandstone, supporting over 35-year-old vines that bring depth and character to the wine. Partial aging (30%) in Burgundy barrels for 12 months enhances the wine’s complexity without overshadowing its purity.

On the nose, the wine reveals a layered bouquet of ripe orchard fruits, including yellow apple and quince, accompanied by subtle floral notes of acacia and a touch of honeycomb. Hints of wet stone and smoky minerality provide a grounding counterpoint to the wine’s aromatic richness.

The palate is where Ronceray truly shines, offering a full-bodied and textured experience. The wine opens with flavors of baked pear, lemon curd, and a whisper of apricot, followed by a wave of saline minerality that adds freshness and energy. The interplay between the creamy mouthfeel and the vibrant acidity is masterfully balanced, creating a wine that feels both substantial and dynamic.

The terroir speaks clearly through the wine’s structure and finish. A slightly salty undertone enhances its versatility and adds intrigue, leading to a long and satisfying conclusion marked by hints of roasted almonds, orange zest, and a delicate herbal quality reminiscent of fennel fronds.

The 2022 Ronceray is a fascinating and versatile Chenin Blanc, a wine that evolves in the glass and invites exploration with every sip. Pair it with roasted poultry, shellfish, or rich vegetarian dishes like truffle risotto to highlight its depth and complexity.

We award this wine with a 91-point DWA score.

2022 Savennières | 100% Chenin Blanc

The 2022 Savennières is a remarkable expression of Chenin Blanc, crafted from the unique terroir of the Savennières vineyard, located across the Loire River in a different AOC. This vineyard benefits from abundant sunlight and sandy soils, enriched over time by wind-borne deposits from the Loire. These conditions create a stark contrast to the terroir of Chaume, resulting in a wine of singular character and intrigue.

Vinified and Aged for 12 15 months, this dry Chenin Blanc presents an arresting chalky nose, interwoven with aromas of fresh citrus, white blossoms, and subtle notes of crushed stones. As it opens, whispers of green apple skin, lemon zest, and delicate flinty minerality emerge, adding complexity and charm.

On the palate, the wine showcases remarkable precision and elegance. Bright, lively acidity cuts through layers of texture, delivering flavors of crisp pear, lime, and hints of saline. There’s an intellectual depth to this wine, as it transitions seamlessly from vibrant citrus to richer notes of honeyed almond, brioche, and a touch of wet slate. Each sip offers a new dimension, inviting exploration and contemplation.

The finish is both sharp and powerful, leaving a lasting impression of finesse and balance. Lingering chalky minerality and a whisper of fresh herbs, such as tarragon and chamomile, complete the wine’s profile, making it a thought-provoking experience from start to finish.

The 2022 Savennières is a wine that defies easy categorization, embodying the dynamism and versatility of the Chenin Blanc grape. Pair this wine with grilled seafood, creamy risottos, or tangy goat cheese to complement its vibrant yet layered character. 

We award this wine with a 94-point DWA score.

The Team of Château de Plaisance.
The Team of Château de Plaisance.

2022 La Grande Pièce | 100% Chenin


Chenin grapes from Butte de Chaume. Vinified and aged in stoneware barrels and jars for 15 months. Pudding stone and sandstone soil which create a solar effect on the vines, enhancing their intensity and concentration. Slow cold pressing, followed by fermentation with native yeasts and partial malolactic fermentation. 

The wine reveals an intricate bouquet of aromas: bright citrus zest, ripe stone fruits like apricot and peach, and subtle floral notes reminiscent of honeysuckle. Hints of minerality emerge, adding depth and intrigue. As it opens up, delicate nuances of white pepper and toasted almonds come to the forefront.

The palate is a harmonious blend of richness and precision. A waxy texture coats the mouth, balanced by a vibrant acidity that carries the wine through its journey. Flavors of candied lemon, crisp green apple, and a touch of honeyed quince shine alongside a subtle saline quality, reflective of the vineyard’s terroir. Layers of complexity unfold with every sip, transitioning into notes of citrus oil, wet stone, and a gentle herbal undertone of chamomile and thyme.

The finish is exceptionally long, leaving an impression of brightness and finesse, with lingering notes of citrus and a touch of creamy hazelnut. 

A masterfully balanced and thought-provoking Chenin Blanc, the 2022 La Grande Pièce exemplifies Château de Plaisance’s dedication to crafting wines that evoke both emotion and a profound sense of place. 

We award this wine with a 93-point DWA score.

Previously we also reviewed the 2021 La Grande Pièce. Click here to read this extensive review.

The Barrel Cellar at Château de Plaisance.
The Barrel Cellar at Château de Plaisance.


2020 Premier Cru Chaume | 100% Chenin Blanc (Moelleux)

The 2020 Premier Cru Chaume is a masterful expression of sweet Chenin Blanc, showcasing the exceptional terroir of Coteaux-du-Layon. Crafted from over 50-year-old vines rooted in sandstone and puddingstone soils, this wine benefits from the natural richness and complexity imparted by its unique environment. Manual harvesting is carried out with meticulous precision, involving multiple passes to select only the finest botrytized grapes. Fermentation with indigenous yeasts and a minimum of one year of barrel aging ensure a wine of depth and refinement.

On the nose, the 2020 Premier Cru Chaume is a symphony of tropical and herbal aromas. Notes of ripe mango, pineapple, and passionfruit mingle with hints of orange blossom, honeycomb, and a whisper of fresh thyme. A delicate thread of minerality provides balance and intrigue.

The palate is a revelation, combining concentration and freshness in perfect harmony. Lush flavors of candied citrus peel, apricot, and golden raisins are underscored by a lively acidity that prevents the sweetness from becoming cloying. Layers of complexity unfold with each sip, revealing nuances of toasted almonds, wildflower honey, and a subtle herbal undertone.

The finish is remarkably long, leaving an impression of finesse and elegance. The interplay of sweetness, freshness, and minerality invites you to revisit this wine again and again, discovering new dimensions with every taste.

The 2020 Premier Cru Chaume is a standout sweet wine that surpasses expectations, seamlessly combining richness and sophistication. It delivers a memorable and emotive experience while embodying the essence of the Coteaux-du-Layon terroir. Pair it with foie gras, blue cheese, or fruit-based desserts like tarte Tatin to fully appreciate its versatility.

We award this wine with a 93-point DWA score.

2021 Sur la Butte | 30% Cabernet Franc, 70% Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2022 Sur la Butte is an impressive red wine and the only one in this Château de Plaisance’s line-up. It originates from the Butte de Chaume vineyard, a site characterized by soils of shale, phtanite, and spilite, nurtured by vines over 35 years old. As the third vintage in this transformative project, the wine showcases continuous refinement and evolution. 

Crafted with care, the grapes are manually harvested in crates, fully destemmed, and fermented with indigenous yeasts. A short maceration of about 10 days ensures a balance between intensity and elegance, followed by 11 months of aging in concrete vats to preserve the purity of fruit and terroir expression.  

On the nose, the 2022 Sur la Butte bursts with aromas of ripe red berries, blackcurrant, and hints of green pepper, which evolve into red pepper as the wine breathes. Subtle earthy undertones and a whisper of spice add depth to the bouquet.  

The palate is suave and pulpy, delivering concentrated flavors of dark fruit, complemented by the freshness characteristic of its terroir. The texture is silky smooth, with restrained tannins that lend elegance and finesse to the wine. As it develops on the palate, the interplay between fruit, herbs, and minerality creates a dynamic and engaging experience. 

The finish is long and harmonious, with lingering notes of red pepper, blackcurrant, and a touch of graphite, highlighting the wine’s refined structure and potential for growth.  

The 2022 Sur la Butte is a true rising star in the Château de Plaisance portfolio, offering a sophisticated yet approachable red wine experience. 

We award this wine with a 91-point DWA score.

Anjou covered in its characteristic fog.
Anjou covered in its characteristic fog.

A Bright Future Rooted in Passion and Terroir

It is evident that Château de Plaisance is aiming for the invisible: wines that provide emotion, made with sincerity and love for the living. With work like this, and tremendous respect for nature, the only way is up for Château de Plaisance. Thank you, Vanessa and team, for sharing your story and beautiful wines.

We predict a bright future for Vanessa, her team and their wines and will surely keep a close eye on their development in the years to come. If you are in the lucky position to get your hands on a bottle or box of their wines, be sure not to miss out, you will not be disappointed!

This article is written by our own Kirsten Andringa. Château de Plaisance is imported in the Netherland by Wijnkooperij de Lange, and available through their website. Picture credits: Château de Plaisance.

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Château de Plaisance