1970 Marc Bredif Collection Vouvray Annee, Loire Valley

The 1970 Marc Brédif Collection Vouvray Année from the Loire Valley is an extraordinary piece of wine history — a fully mature Chenin Blanc that embodies the grace and longevity for which the appellation is famed. Produced by Maison Marc Brédif, one of Vouvray’s oldest and most respected houses, this wine captures the magic of time: rich, honeyed and endlessly complex, yet still vibrant and alive after more than half a century.

The vineyards lie on the limestone-rich plateau overlooking the Loire River, where Chenin Blanc thrives on chalky tuffeau soils that provide both minerality and natural acidity. 1970 was a fine, balanced vintage in the Loire, with a long, dry autumn that allowed for extended ripening and perfect concentration. Grapes were hand harvested at optimal maturity and vinified in neutral oak and stainless steel before being cellared in the cool, ancient limestone caves beneath the estate — a setting that allows wines to age slowly and gracefully for decades.

Now golden amber in colour, the wine opens with an enchanting bouquet of honey, dried apricot, orange blossom, quince paste, lanolin and spice, underscored by beeswax and wet stone. The palate is luxurious yet taut, balancing gentle sweetness with vivid acidity. Layers of baked apple, caramelised citrus and hazelnut unfold into a finish of extraordinary length and clarity. There is remarkable vitality and harmony here — a perfect example of why aged Vouvray is among the world’s most enduring white wines.

It’s a contemplative wine best savoured on its own or paired with blue cheese, foie gras, tarte Tatin, or almond pastries. Still glowing with life, the 1970 Vouvray Année has the structure to continue evolving for decades more, offering a rare glimpse into the timeless beauty of Chenin Blanc.