2016 Château Soucherie Coteaux du Layon Exception

The climate in the Vallée du Layon is perfectly suited to the development of botrytus cinerea (noble rot). The cool, damp nights, morning dew and mist, alternating with warm, sunny afternoons ensure a controlled growth of these fungi. This results in beautiful sweet wines with a unique, complex character.

The grapes are harvested at different times, with only the perfectly ripe grapes being selected. After a soft pressing, a spontaneous fermentation takes place with the help of the natural yeasts, after which the wine matures for another 9 months in large oak barrels.

The Exception is a lush wine with ripe aromas of tropical fruit and fragrant blossom. Sweet and rich in taste, but never sluggish or tiring due to the lively acids. The finish is concentrated and complex, with a nice balance between sugars and acids.

About Château Soucherie

Château Soucherie owns 28 hectares of vineyards planted with Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc. These are used to make Anjou Blanc, Rouge and Villages Rouge. The estate also has vineyards in Coteaux du Layon (including the premier cru Chaume) and in Savennières (Clos de Perrières). The château is currently still in the process of converting to fully organic viticulture, for which the house will receive official certification in 2022. Read more under the tab: Winery

WINE-FOOD SUGGESTIONS

1. Roasted pumpkin with goat cheese and honey
   The soft sweetness of the pumpkin and the creaminess of the goat cheese complement the fruity and honeyed character of the wine.

2. Chicken in coconut milk with lime and coriander
   The creamy sauce and fresh herbs provide a nice balance with the lively acids and tropical fruit of the wine.

3. Salad with mango, smoked chicken and mint
   The sweet-smoky combination is refreshed by the wine, while the fruity profile of both blends nicely.

4. Chicory with ham and cheese sauce from the oven
   The bitterness of chicory, the saltiness of ham and the creaminess of cheese go perfectly with the fresh sweetness of the wine.

5. Foie gras with brioche toast and candied figs
   The creaminess of the foie gras and the sweet-fruity accent of figs match perfectly with the rich style of this Côteaux du Layon.

6. Apple tarte tatin with vanilla cream
   The caramelized apple and creamy topping enhance the peach and honey notes in the wine and are nicely freshened by the acidity.