Saumur Blanc “Le Refuge de Chavannes” 2020 Domaine de l’Enchantoir
The Saumur Blanc “Le Refuge de Chavannes” 2020 is the flagship expression of Chenin Blanc at Domaine de l’Enchantoir. Its name pays tribute to the historic troglodyte caves of Chavannes, carved into the limestone beneath the Enchantoir hillside and once used as shelters by local inhabitants during times of war. Today, these ancient underground galleries symbolise the deep connection between the estate, its history and the remarkable terroir of Le Puy-Notre-Dame.
The vineyards are rooted in the area’s distinctive Turonian limestone and clay soils, renowned for producing Chenin Blanc of exceptional freshness, minerality and longevity. The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully vinified to preserve their purity and faithfully express the character of the vineyard.
The wine is then aged for 24 months in oak barrels, allowing it to gain remarkable texture, complexity and depth while maintaining the vibrant acidity that defines great Loire Chenin Blanc. The oak remains perfectly integrated, enhancing rather than masking the wine’s mineral identity.
In the glass, it shows a brilliant golden-yellow colour. The nose is layered and refined, revealing ripe yellow fruit, candied citrus, white flowers, delicate honey, toasted hazelnut and gentle spice, all supported by a distinctive chalky minerality.
The palate is broad, elegant and beautifully structured, combining richness with precision through vibrant acidity and a pronounced saline character. The finish is long, complex and remarkably persistent, highlighting both the wine’s refinement and its outstanding ageing potential.
Le Refuge de Chavannes is a gastronomic Loire Chenin Blanc that will continue to evolve gracefully over many years. It pairs beautifully with grilled fish, seafood in sauce, shellfish, poultry and creamy white meat dishes, as well as medium-aged cheeses.


