Domaine de La Renière

The history of Domaine de la Renière dates back to 1631, when the property was a farm owned by the Gay family, who maintained its transmission for several centuries. In 2018, the estate underwent a major turning point when Thibault Masse took over the property, becoming the first winemaker outside the founding family. He then partnered with Guillaume Poitevin to revive and modernize the estate while respecting its heritage. Driven by a deep passion for viticulture, particularly for Chenin, Thibault Masse relies on a solid education in vine sciences and oenology, complemented by experiences in prestigious properties, before settling in Puy-Notre-Dame with the ambition of revealing the historical potential of the estate.

The vineyard now extends over approximately 16 hectares located around Puy-Notre-Dame, in the heart of the Saumur appellation. The vines rest on soils of tuffeau chalk and clay-limestone typical of the region, particularly favorable for the expression of chenin blanc and cabernet franc. This terroir, rich in trace elements and with excellent water regulation, allows for grapes to achieve a slow and balanced maturity, giving the wines their freshness, precision, and mineral signature. Since the takeover by Thibault Masse, the estate has been managed organically, with particular attention paid to the natural balance of the vine and biodiversity.

Today, Thibault Masse fully embodies the identity of the estate and directs its style with a precise and low-intervention approach. The harvests are done manually, the fermentations primarily rely on indigenous yeasts, and the aging processes are designed to preserve the expression of the terroirs, sometimes in tanks, barrels, or amphorae. A proponent of collective work among winemakers and environmentally respectful viticulture, he is gradually developing a parcel-based understanding of the vineyard to highlight the diversity of the soils. Under his leadership, Domaine de la Renière is now establishing itself as a rising signature of the Saumurois, recognized for the elegance, purity, and precision of its cuvées.