Mixed Case – Springtime in Loire

Tasting Notes

The Loire Valley is known as “The Garden of France” due to its extensive agricultural output. Vegetables, fruit trees, cheese and wine are all produced in abundance in what is perhaps the most lush and fertile area of France. Spring in the Loire is always a time that brings special promise and today, we present a mixed case intended to capture the excitement and vibrancy of springtime in the Loire Valley.

This is a mixed case of 6 bottles; 2 of each wine. One white, one rose, and one red. The case cost is $177.00 (average $29.50 a bottle)

Domaine Villargeau Coteaux du Giennnois 2020:
Bordering the famous region of Sancerre to the north-west, the Coteaux du Giennois produces wines that are similar to their more famous neighbour, but at much lower prices. Made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc grown on soils rich in flint (silex) and limestone, this poised white is a light-yellow colour with green highlights. The bouquet shows racy floral and lime notes with lingering scents of apricots and tangerine. The palate is fresh and clean with a rich texture that finishes crisp with citrus and mineral flavours that linger. Perfect as an aperitif on the patio, with herb sauced white fish or with bright spring salads (think asparagus or goat cheese).

Baudry-Dutour Cuvée Marie Justine Chinon Rosé 2021:
100% Cabernet Franc. Taking its name from Christophe Baudry’s two daughters, this wine is made as a “true rosé” meaning the grapes were grown and harvested specifically to produce a rosé wine and it is not a by-product of red wine making. Recognizable by its signature pale, salmon-hued colour, the wine displays a bouquet of fresh citrus and strawberries with notes of tangerine, peaches and hints of white summer flowers. The palate is dry, balanced and elegant with restrained alcohol and a mouth-watering finish.

Dom. du Roncée, Chinon “Clos des Marronniers” 2018:
This wine is produced from a 7-hectare limestone and gravel vineyard (certified High Environmental Value) on the alluvial plain of the Vienne River. The 40+ year old Cabernet Franc vines are meticulously tended and hand harvested at peak ripeness. The grapes are fully de-stemmed and cold macerated for 5 to 6 days before vatting of about 15 days. Maturation of the wine takes place 50% in stainless steel tank and 50% in aged oak barrels. Expect a full and lively wine with a deep garnet colour. Aromas are of blackcurrant and morello cherry, complimented by vanilla notes from the barrel aging. The palate displays cherry, raspberry, liquorice with lingering smooth tannins and a hint of cocoa on the finish. It will continue to age gracefully for another 10 years and can be enjoyed with beefsteak or seared duck breast.