The Producer
Located in Vaudelnay, in the heart of Anjou-Saumur, Domaine Noctua is a recent adventure, born in 2021–2022 from the conversion of Marie and Amaury Vaganay. After paths far removed from the world of wine, they chose to settle in the Loire with a strong desire: to work with a living vineyard, respectful of its environment, and to produce sincere wines with minimal intervention. The name “Noctua,” inspired by the little owl of Athena nesting in the cellar, symbolizes this close connection with nature and the attentive observation of life.
The estate now covers about 7.5 hectares, spread over a mosaic of typical soils of Anjou: schists and volcanic rocks for the whites, clay-sandy silts and limestones for the reds. This geological patchwork, combined with a temperate climate influenced by the ocean, allows for a fine expression of the Loire grape varieties, mainly chenin and cabernet franc. The vines are being converted to organic farming, with particular attention paid to soil life and the natural balance of the plots.
Today, Domaine Noctua offers a range of precise and committed wines, from Anjou whites to reds and more unique cuvées (natural sparkling, macerations, etc.). The vinifications are gentle, low-intervention, with few sulfites and no residual sugars, in order to best express the terroir. Cuvées like Grand Duc, Noctiluque, and Lucibilis illustrate this quest for balance between freshness, purity, and drinkability, in a contemporary style but deeply rooted in the Loire landscape.
The Wine
Grape variety: 100% cabernet franc
Soils: East-West oriented, limestone and shallow soils
Vinification: Skin maceration for 16 days in cement tank - Aged in tank for 9 months
Tasting
This true bomb surprises as much as it delights. The nose is very complex, with red fruits, cardamom, and an almost spicy side. On the palate, a striking and refreshing acidity gives way to wild indulgence and lovely tannins, with red berries appearing at the finish. Simply brilliant.
Will pair well with light sauced poultry, as well as a vegetarian pizza.