From the Metro to Château de Valmer

One evening, as he let his third crowded RER train pass, Jean de Saint-Venant had an epiphany: no more the daily grind of the RER; it was time for him to pursue oenology studies to take over Château de Valmer. Before returning to the vineyards of his native Touraine, he worked in a tower in La Défense, Paris.

From Paris to the Vineyards of Château de Valmer

The question is no longer relevant. While my years in Paris certainly taught me a great deal, one must learn to listen to oneself and have the courage to live their own life. Mine was no longer in Paris, akin to an animal outside its suitable biotope.

The Passion for Wine: A Family Legacy at Jean de Saint-Venant's Estate

This family passion has been passed down through six generations; although I was fortunate to grow up immersed in this environment, it was truly during adolescence that I realized my life would be dedicated to viticulture and winemaking. I had to wait 10 years to fulfill this ambition.

Why “Les Grappes”?

At a trade fair, I met Loïc Tanguy, with whom I began discussing wines, and during our conversation, he explained the project he was developing. Given the standardization of wine sales websites, I saw in the Les Grappes concept a simple and modern way to share my wines and ideas with a wider audience, with the key advantage of direct communication with those who appreciate my wines and are interested in the viticultural world.

Our Estate's Favorite Cuvées:

Vouvray Dry 2017

Traditional Method Brut 2015

Vouvray Demi-Sec 2014

Valmer Bottle in the Château Gardens

A Brief History of Château de Valmer?

According to tradition, Valmer first belonged to King Charles VII. Then, on May 23, 1640, Sieur Thomas Bonneau, Counselor to King Louis XIII, acquired Valmer. He is credited with the constructions visible today: the outbuildings, terraces, Petit Valmer pavilion, and park.

In September 1888, Monsieur and Madame Lefèvre purchased Valmer. Their descendants, the Count and Countess de Saint Venant, still reside on the estate.

The Vineyards of Château de Valmer

Château de Valmer in 10 Years

In 10 years, I will be in my vineyards, devoted to my terroir and my beautiful Touraine. The years will certainly have taken their toll on me, but I hope to be like fine wine: improved with age.

Discover Jean's wines on Les Grappes

Why trust us?

Since 2014, Les Grappes has been dedicated to meeting passionate winemakers across France to unearth authentic, vibrant wines with rich histories. By collaborating directly with over 500 vintners, we meticulously select cuvées that we genuinely appreciate and are eager to share with you.

This blog serves as an extension of that journey. Here, we share our discoveries, expert advice, favorite selections, optimal food and wine pairings, tasting recommendations, and everything that inspires us daily in the world of wine.

The objective is straightforward: to assist you in selecting bottles that align with your preferences and to enhance your enjoyment in tasting them.