2022 Ch de Coulaine Chinon Half Bottle 375ml, Loire Valley

Château de Coulaine Chinon is a captivating expression of Cabernet Franc from the heart of the Loire Valley, showcasing the elegance and charm of this historic appellation. Château de Coulaine, a family-owned estate with a winemaking history that dates back to 1300, is known for its dedication to organic viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking. Their Chinon wines are crafted to highlight the unique terroir of their vineyards, which are situated on limestone and clay soils, benefiting from the cool climate of the Loire Valley. The result is a pure, terroir-driven wine that beautifully balances vibrant fruit, earthy complexity, and refined structure.

On the palate, Château de Coulaine Chinon delivers a fresh and lively profile with notes of red currant, tart cherry, and ripe raspberry, interwoven with savory elements of bell pepper, dried herbs, and forest floor. Subtle undertones of graphite and mineral provide depth, while the wine’s fine-grained tannins and bright acidity create an elegant structure. Aromas of violet and a hint of black tea add further complexity, leading to a long, clean finish with lingering red fruit and earthy nuances.

This Chinon is an ideal food wine, pairing wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It complements roasted poultry, grilled pork, and herb-crusted lamb, as well as vegetarian fare like ratatouille, lentil stew, or mushroom-based dishes. Its fresh acidity and herbal character also make it an excellent companion to soft cheeses such as chèvre. Enjoyable in its youth for its vibrant fruit and freshness, this wine also has the potential to evolve beautifully with 5–7 years of cellaring, developing further nuance and complexity.