Cep by Cep Coteaux Du Layon 2020

Cep by Cep Coteaux du Layon is a delicate sweet Chenin Blanc from terraced clay and schist in the Layon valley.

The Coteaux du Layon follows a tributary of the Loire southwest of Angers, where autumn mists reliably bring botrytis and the appellation's crus, Bonnezeaux, Chaume and Quarts de Chaume, make the richest wines in the region. This cuvée is drawn from Philippe Germain's estate vineyards at Rochefort-sur-Loire, in the heart of the valley, where the clay and schist soils are cut into an unusual amphitheatre of terraces. The fruit is picked passerillé, shrivelled on the vine with little or no botrytis, then fermented naturally and aged in neutral 400-litre demi-muids. Fermentation was arrested at around 80 grams per litre of residual sugar, balanced by brisk acidity and a modest 11 per cent alcohol. Against most of the appellation, the Germain brothers' wine sits at the lighter, more Germanic end of the style.

Good now and for a decade or more. Serve at 8-10°C with a fruit tart, a plate of blue cheese or lightly spiced pork.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.