Pierre Caslot @Domaine de la Chevalerie,
Restigné, Bourgueil with some binettes: June 2014
CRM and I are very sad to learn today that Pierre Caslot (Domaine de la Chevalerie), one of the great personalities of the Loire, lost his four-year fight with cancer yesterday. It started as prostate cancer but despite treatment it spread elsewhere in his body. On Thursday he had an operation to remove a growth in his throat. The fact that his doctors had decided to operate seemed to be a hopeful sign. Very sadly this was to prove a false hope. He was 62.
As well as being a fine producer – Domaine de Chevalerie is among the top Loire estates and has long been organic – Pierre was a larger than life character, full of fun and generously wanted to share his passion for wine and life itself, conscious that he was part of a 400-year-long family tradition. Pierre was the inspiration for the annual Bourgueillothérapie, which I'm sure will continue in his honour and memory.
During the growing season Pierre would regularly organise les journées binettes (hoes) described as 'scéances de remise en forme en plein air'. These days in the vines helped people to get fit but also helped to keep the weeds in the vineyards under control.
I last saw Pierre on Thursday 9th October during the harvest enjoying lunch in the autumn sunshine with a glass of his Bourgueil rosé. He lived long enough to know that 2014 his last vintage would be a good one and to see the harvest finished. We have treasured memories of Pierre.
Our sincere condolences to Pierre's family, especially daughter and son – Stéphanie and Emmanuel.
Santé Pierre!
Pierre, Stéphanie and Emmanuel
with their binettes in the vines at Chevalerie: June 2014
Pierre Caslot: September 2012
Pierre tasting
The remarkable Caslot caves
Recently joined FB community, Jim, through Christine actually. Still, no great fan of the "like" system. But must admit I share your view on this Bourgueil personality. Only met him once but keep the best memories. And regularly drink them wines. Condolences to family.
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