One of the more distinctive, indigenous varieties in the Loire Valley is Pineau d’Aunis. Like Grolleau, it is prone to vigor and yields must be controlled. When farmed and fermented well, a startlingly unique wine emerges – one that mixes sweet-tart cherries, cracked pepper, and punchy acidity. Espérance comes from vines between 50-60 years old planted on gravelly clays soils with sandstone and schist.
