Hop Hop Hop 2020

Region: France
Appellation: Loire
Color/Style: Sparkling
Grapes: Chenin Blanc, Pineau d'Aunis

Ariane Lesné embarked on her wine journey in the early 1990s, immersing herself in various roles within the industry. From retail to distribution and a stint at the esteemed Domaine de l'Arlot in Nuits St. Georges, she gained invaluable experience. During her time in Paris, she developed a deep affection for Pineau d'aunis, a varietal that evoked the allure of exceptional Pinot Noirs with its heightened aromatic profile.

In early 2014, Ariane received news that Emile Héredia, the proprietor of Domaine de Montrieux, was putting the estate up for sale. Captivated by the opportunity, she swiftly made the decision to pursue it. Domaine de Montrieux, established by Emile Héredia in 1999, boasted several exceptional parcels with ancient vines rooted in distinctive terroirs within the Coteaux de Vendômois, an underdog appellation in the Loir and Cher department of the Loir Valley.

Without hesitation, Ariane made the estate her new home by the time of harvest, eventually assuming full ownership in spring 2015. Upon taking charge, she discovered that the property was initially planted with 7.5 hectares of vines. However, due to consecutive losses caused by mildew and frost, she took the decision in 2018 to uproot some vines and replant them in new parcels. Presently, the estate spans a little over 6 hectares of vineyards, where Ariane passionately crafts some of the most approachable and exhilarating wines in the region. Notably, her bottles are adorned with imaginative and artistic labels illustrated by a close friend.