Chinon

The red wine producing region of Chinon lies on the southern side of the Loire river, just east of Saumur. Almost 90% of the wines produced here are red, made predominantly from the Cabernet Franc grape, with a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon and also Pineau d’Aunis. The wines are generally light to medium bodied in style, with a fresh, vibrant, raspberry fruit character, but in the best areas, these reds can develop into wines of texture, richness and some degree of longevity, whilst remembering that the wines are fruit driven, and light in tannins – from grapes that are suited to the continental climate of northern France.

About Chinon

It is in this area, just before we hit the centre of the Touraine region, that a unique soil type comes into play, the yellow ‘Tuffeau’ soil; this is a soil, based on volcanic rock from millions of years ago, laden with fossils. It contributes a great deal to the richness and quality of the nutrients that the vines can draw on, in this area. It is porous and retains water, allowing the vines to draw on these resources, in hot, dry conditions, and continue a measured growth and ripeness process, which adds concentration, depth, and complexity to the wines.

Style: - the reds of this area, are arguably the best in the Loire, with richness, elegance and texture. Still relatively low in tannins, these reds are silky, velvety, and bursting with rich, fruit-driven flavours and an underlying complexity. Red berry fruit, cinnamon spice and wild herbs are characteristics which are often found in these wines.

Grapes: - Cabernet Franc

Good with: - similar to other Loire reds, these wines can be lightly chilled, and work beautifully with gammon, cured meats and charcuterie; veal, chicken and pork in creamy sauces, and they are also superb with richer, meaty fish dishes, such as monkfish. Perfect with soft cheeses also.

Chinon Wine Prices