Frédéric Monnier: Les Pierres Meslières

Frédéric Monnier is a relatively new but impactful natural winemaker who established Domaine Les Pierres Meslièresin 2021 in the Coteaux d'Ancenis area of the Loire Valley. His story is one of a career shift, having previously worked as an engineer in the pharmaceutical industry before dedicating himself to viticulture.

🌿 Terroir and Farming

The domaine's identity is inextricably linked to its unique geological location:

• Exceptional Terroir: The name "Pierres Meslières" (Meslières Stones) refers to the remarkable site, an éperon rocheux (rocky spur) overlooking the Loire, where a strong mineral imprint is evident.

• Geology: The soils are shallow and composed of schist and quartzite. The site is also known for its rich Neolithic past, once featuring an arc of 48 menhirs (megaliths), giving the land a "telluric sensation."

• Organic Conversion: Frédéric began the organic conversion of the vineyards when he took over the domaine in 2021.

• Viticulture: He works the soil partially, focusing mainly on the cavaillon (the area directly under the vines). Treatments rely on the use of copper, sulfur, herbal preparations, and essential oils.

• Harvest: All harvests are manual and grapes are collected in small crates to preserve quality.

🍷 Winemaking Style and Wines

Frédéric Monnier applies a minimalist approach in the cellar to allow the terroir to speak:

• Minimal Intervention: Interventions in the cellar are minimal, with fermentation carried out by indigenous yeasts.

• Sulfur: Sulfites may be added if necessary to ensure stability, though the overall approach is low-intervention/natural.

• Varietals: The domaine cultivates a diverse range of grapes, including:

  • White: Melon de Bourgogne, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris.

  • Red: Gamay, Gamay teinturier, Merlot, and Pinot Gris (used for some whites/oranges).

• Cuvées: Notable wines include the white "Schiste & Quartzite" (Melon de Bourgogne) and the red "Le Jardin"(100% Gamay).

Frédéric Monnier is a respected member of the natural wine community in the Loire, often participating in regional natural wine events.