Natural wine from the Loire Valley has been chosen for the mass at the grand reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. This selection comes after a long and careful restoration process following the devastating fire that occurred in April 2019, which caused significant damage to the historic structure.
The Archbishop of Paris chose a natural wine created by Régis and Anne-Reine Anouil, who have been producing wine at their estate, Domaine de La Bénisson-Dieu. Their wines align with the requirements set by the Roman Congregation for Divine Worship, which states that sacramental wine must be pure fermented grape juice.
Régis Anouil previously contacted Bishop Laurent Ulrich to suggest their white blend for the ceremony. Anouil expressed that their wines are prepared with respect for the environment, and he emphasized the healthiness of their product in contrast to conventional mass wines, which he finds often too sweet and over-sulphured.
The couple moved to an eco-hamlet in the Loire Valley to pursue their passion for winemaking after retiring from their previous careers. They manage a small vineyard where they produce approximately 10,000 bottles per year using eco-friendly methods. Their chosen white wine, made from a blend of Chardonnay, Grenache Blanc, and Clairette Blanche, will not only be served during the reopening ceremony but also during the following week’s masses.
Anouil remarked on the honor they feel being part of such a significant event. "This fruit of the earth and the work of men is our very modest offering to the immense surge of generosity that accompanies the reconstruction of the cathedral of Paris," he stated.
The reopening event is set for December 8, 2024, marking a pivotal moment in the cathedral’s history after years of dedicated restoration efforts.
For more information, see the following links:
Loire Valley
Chardonnay
Notre-Dame restoration funding
Loire Valley 2023 vintage report