Belargus

Belargus was initiated byIvan Massonnat with the vision of restoring the reputation of a thousand-year-old vineyard located in the heart of Anjou and dedicate it entirely to the cultivation of Chenin Blanc. The Estate adopts a single-plot approach inspired by Burgundy and exploring the micro-terroirs of Anjou Noir.

Anjou has a long history of winemaking dating back to the 11th century, where Chenin Blanc was the dominant grape variety. For centuries, Anjou wines graced the tables of royalty across Europe. However, with the advent of modern times came technical innovations that brought historic challenges to the region, transforming it profoundly. Nevertheless, the Domaine Belargus recognizes the rich heritage of this region, and through its selection of grands crus, single-plots, and monopoles, aims to reveal the myriad facets of millenary terroirs.

The Estate cultivates 24 hectares of land, exclusively dedicated to the noble Chenin grape, using biodynamic methods to express the quintessence of each terroir. Its mission is to showcase the personality of each vintage through a single-plot approach. Notable among its most remarkable plots are the Quarts-de-Chaume (grand cru), which occupies a central position in the Estate, spanning 10 hectares in one piece, and the "Coteau des Treilles" (monopole), a wild and steep hillside located in the heart of a classified "Regional Natural Reserve." Also worth mentioning is the "Clos des Ruchères" (monopole) in Savennières, planted on a  hillside of rare purple schists.

The Estate produces a collection of dry white wines each year, respecting the personality of the vintage. In exceptional years, the Estate uses the magic of botrytis to create some sweet wines.

Belargus wines are rated high. The Quarts-de-Chaume Grand Cru Liquoreux Ultra 2018 was rated 100 points by Robert Parker.