Re-Discover The Loire
Over the past three days, I have crisscrossed the eastern end of the Loire: appellations like Reuilly, Touraine, Chinon, and Vouvray. I’m nearly overwhelmed with the variety of wines I’ve tasted, and this only represents a fraction of the region.
The Loire is known as the Garden of France, and its abundance is displayed in the diversity of grape varieties and vignerons that are truly connected to the land. Most people who live in the area have deep roots going back not just generations, but centuries. If any of you have spent time in the region, you probably understand why anyone would to loath to leave it. My own family is from the region, and while I know the reasons for their move, coming back here always feels like a homecoming.
Among the reasons to keep coming back is the tremendous variety of wines, both red and white. The standard bearers for the region are the noble Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc, but that is just the beginning. At the western end, in Muscadet, Melon de Bourgogne is ubiquitous. At the other end of the valley, Touraine and Sancerre are closer to the Côte d’Or in Burgundy than Chinon or Saumur, so it's no wonder we find a preponderance of Pinot Noir.
For a peek into this endless cornucopia of wines, I’ve put together a three-pack each of whites and reds, for you to discover, or rediscover, the Loire. If you can't decide between the two, grab one of each for a special 6-pack price noted below.
Discover the Loire - White 3 Pack
1) Laura David 'Insolente' 2023
A case study in how good Chenin Blanc can be! This is dry, very fine and soft, yet screaming with fruit--white peach, quince, and kumquats--and perfectly balanced acidity.
2) Domaine Delaunay 'Val-Fleuri' 2023
A classically styled Muscadet: as the name suggests, a floral nose, followed by a layered, yet precise texture on the palate. Perfect on the table with any kind of seafood, Caesar salad, or anytime as an aperitif.
3) Domaine des Sanzay 'Les Bazilles' 2024
Didier Sanzay ferments this Chenin in stainless steel for explosively fresh aromas of crisp apple, pear, and citrus, with a whiff of honey. Chenin’s naturally lively acidity balances the fruitiness for a long, mouthwatering finish.
Discover the Loire - Red 3 Pack
1) Domaine Lelais Pineau d'Aunis 2022
The spicy and aromatic Pineau d'Aunis is found in many parts of the Loire, always bright and fruity, with an undercurrent of cedar. This one is light on its feet, with pleasantly drying tannins.
2) Pierre Martin Sancerre Rouge 2022
Sancerre is well known for its unmistakably radiant Sauvignon Blancs, but the appellation is closer to Burgundy than it is to Chinon. The lesser-known red Sancerre is a delicate Pinot noir that is juicy and fresh, with a savoury woodsy-ness.
3) La Nivadière Chinon 'Renaisance' 2018
Cabernet Franc is the little black dress of wines--appropriate for nearly any occasion. Dense black fruit and rich umami on both the nose and palate. A few years of bottle age have given this Chinon silky smooth tannins--a beautiful balance of age and freshness.