2022 Domaine d'Orfeuilles Vouvray Nature Sec, Loire Valley

Domaine d'Orfeuilles Vouvray Sec is a Loire Valley classic, crafted from Chenin Blanc grown on the chalky tuffeau and clay-limestone slopes of Vouvray. The domaine itself has deep roots, with vines cultivated in these rolling vineyards since the 19th century, and today the family-run estate is known for producing wines across the full spectrum of Chenin styles — from bone-dry Sec to demi-sec, moelleux, and sparkling.

The Vouvray Sec is the purest, most linear expression of the terroir. Made entirely from Chenin Blanc, it is fermented and matured in a way that highlights clarity and freshness, sometimes with a portion aged in neutral oak for texture. The wine shows crystalline aromas of green apple, quince, white flowers, and citrus zest, with a whisper of honeycomb and wet stone. On the palate, it’s taut and dry, with mouthwatering acidity, chalky minerality, and a clean, persistent finish that speaks to both the limestone soils and the variety’s natural tension.

Food pairings are wide and flexible thanks to the freshness and subtle weight of Chenin Blanc. It is beautiful with Loire Valley classics like goat’s cheese (Crottin de Chavignol), but also with shellfish, grilled white fish, sushi, or vegetable-based dishes such as asparagus or zucchini risotto. It can even stand up to lightly spiced dishes, making it a surprisingly versatile white. Cellaring potential is excellent — while delicious young, Vouvray Sec from good producers like Domaine d'Orfeuilles can evolve for 10–15 years, developing honeyed, lanolin-like complexity without losing its backbone of acidity.