Geoffrey De Nouël
Geoffrey de Noüel is based at La Peuvrie in Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, and took over the Ligeard family vineyards in 2016. After studying biology and obtaining a BTS in viticulture and oenology, this artisan winemaker gained invaluable experience in various vineyards, from Chinon to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. His arrival at La Peuvrie in 2016 marked the start of his career as an artisan winemaker. The estate covers around ten hectares and is divided into two main entities. The first is in Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine and comprises five lieux-dits: le Bois Bonnard, le Clos de la Peuvrie, la Peuvrie, les Pesneaux and les Vignes des Archambaults. These parcels, located in the Touraine AOC, represent five distinct terroirs, vinified separately. The second entity is located in Chinonais, encompassing three AOC Chinon communes: Avon-lès-Roches (les Noraies), Crouzilles (Belle Vue) and Panzoult (Les Folies). In addition to these two groups, there are also scattered plots in the communes of Crissay-sur-Manse (le Coteau and les Guignetières) and Pouzay (la Billette). These terroirs give rise to special, confidential cuvées outside the appellations. The vines are mainly planted with Cabernet Franc, covering most of the plots in Sainte-Maure and Chinonais, as well as those in Crissay-sur-Manse and Pouzay. Côt is also grown in Sainte-Maure, while white varieties include Chardonnay and Sauvignon. Geoffrey de Noüel has been practicing organic farming since his first vintage. He applies meticulous tillage and sulfur/copper treatments to preserve the health of the different grape varieties. The domaine adopts a “Burgundian” approach, vinifying each plot separately to preserve the identity of each. This methodology enhances the authenticity and great diversity of the terroirs found on the estate. Last but not least, the story of the domaine would not be complete without mentioning Obama, the domaine's mascot, who enjoys gnawing on the stalking wires and keeping a watchful eye on the tractor that transports the stalks.