2024 Marc Bredif Classic Vouvray, Loire Valley

Marc Brédif Classic Vouvray from the Loire Valley is a timeless and elegant expression of Chenin Blanc, known for its balance, purity and graceful ageing potential. Founded in 1893, Maison Marc Brédif is one of the most historic producers in the Loire, crafting wines that have long been regarded as benchmarks of the Vouvray appellation. The estate’s deep cellars, carved into the tuffeau limestone cliffs along the Loire River, provide the perfect natural conditions for slow maturation and the development of Vouvray’s hallmark complexity.

The grapes are sourced from vineyards planted on limestone and clay soils overlooking the Loire. This terroir, combined with the region’s cool continental climate, allows Chenin Blanc to ripen slowly, building intensity while maintaining vivid acidity. After gentle pressing, the juice is fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve aromatic freshness, followed by ageing on fine lees to enhance texture and mouthfeel.

In the glass it shows a pale golden hue with glints of green. The nose is fresh and inviting, offering notes of white flowers, quince, pear and honey with a touch of mineral. On the palate it is medium bodied and finely balanced, with flavours of apple, citrus and peach supported by subtle honeyed richness and lively acidity. The finish is long, pure and delicately off-dry, making it both refreshing and complex.

Marc Brédif Classic Vouvray is wonderfully versatile at the table, pairing beautifully with roast chicken, goat cheese, shellfish, or lightly spiced Asian cuisine. It also complements pork terrine, creamy risotto or dishes with subtle sweetness and spice. While approachable in its youth, it will develop extraordinary depth and complexity over ten to fifteen years, revealing notes of beeswax, lanolin and dried apricot.