Domaine du Collier

Domaine du Collier was established in 1999 by Antoine Foucault and Caroline Boireau. The domaine is located in the commune of Brézé within the Loire Valley appellation of Saumur Champigny. The estate is comprised of 6.5 hectares of vines dedicated to Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc. As a proponent of natural viticulture and winemaking, Antoine uses no chemical fungicides or fertilizers on the vines, and all harvesting is done by hand. In the cellar the wines are pressed off and barreled down and then left alone until they are ready.  No racking, no SO2, no added yeast, etc.  Antoine is a patient man and the wines often spend over 2 years in elevage.  Currently there are four wines produced with a total annual production of approximately 1200 cases.

Domaine du Collier Saumur Blanc

This is from all of his Chenin vines not in Charpentrie.  Predominantly in and around the Ripaille site.  Vines aged 25 to 75 years.  Generally this wine is a little less dense than the Charpentrie.  Slightly more ethereal and less powerful.  

Domaine du Collier 'La Charpentrie' Saumur Blanc

From vines aged well over 100 years in the Charpentrie vineyard.  These are vines that were destined to be pulled out before Antoine purchased them.  Stunning density and complexity. 

Domaine du Collier 'La Ripaille' Saumur Rouge

From vines aged 30 to 60 years.  This vineyard always produces huge acidity.  Bright and high toned.

Domaine du Collier 'La Charpentrie' Saumur Rouge

From vines aged well over 100 years in the Charpentrie vineyard.  The old vines and the terroir of Charpentrie produce a great push/pull of density and lift.  Powerful yet graceful wine.