Domaine Saumaize-Michelin Vire Clesse 2018

Owner Roger Saumaize was born amid the vineyards of winemakers parents and shares his passion with his wife Christine (her maiden name is Michelin), where the name of the Domaine Saumaize-Michelin derives. Roger and Christine Saumaize like the contact with their clients with whom they share their passion and their interest in wine. In 1977, Roger Saumaize received 4 hectares of vineyards from his Father. He completely took over the Father's Estate in 1978. The Domaine Saumaize-Michelin was built over time. For instance, in 1979, Roger and Christine bought 1.60 hectares of “La Roche” vineyards in Vergisson. Then, in 1985 the decision was made to vinify all the parcels separately. Such as the Pouilly Fuissé “Clos de la Roche” cuvée that was created at that time.

Saumaize-Michelin has followed organic farming for twenty years and they have been practicing biodynamic farming since 2005, which is quite unique in the region, where herbicide use is common. Their vines average 50 years old and the philosophy of the farming is to, in Roger's words, "capture the energy of the place". All of the grapes are hand-harvested and depending on the vintage and parcel, may be picked in several passes. In the cellar, there is a gentle and slow pressing in two pneumatic presses. After the juice has settled for a day, it’s moved right into barrel for fermentation and aging. Wines are aged on the lees with occasional stirring for twelve months.