Château de Fesles: Vineyards
Château de Fesles is located on the outskirts of the village of Bonnezeaux itself, well within the Bonnezeaux appellation which stretches over three distinct slopes which run down to the waters of the Layon, facing southeast and southwest. The vineyard itself covers 33 hectares, of which only 14 are classified as Bonnezeaux, the rest as straight Anjou Blanc or Rouge.
The 14 hectares dedicated to Chenin Blanc and Bonnezeaux lie on the slope of the hill, immediately around the château. Underfoot is a stony soil rich in clay and schist, as well as phthanites. The nearby Layon frequently gives rise to morning mists, especially in autumn, encouraging the development of botrytis which is of course essential for the production of the highest quality sweet wines here in Bonnezeaux, as it is in the Quarts de Chaume and Coteaux du Layon appellations.
As well as Chenin Blanc on the slopes, on the plateau both Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon are planted for Anjou Rouge, and there is also some Grolleau and Gamay which are useful for rosé.
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