Chinon

The Chinon wine appellation covers an area of 2,400 hectares and produces 110,000 hectoliters of red, white, and rosé wine annually. There are three main types of soil in Chinon. Firstly, the alluvial terraces (both old and recent) along the banks of the Vienne, composed of gravel and sand; then the hillsides and limestone hills of the Turonian (yellow tuffeau) located along the riverbanks; and finally the plateaus and hills composed mainly of flint clay and sand (Senonian). The wide confluence of the Loire and Vienne rivers is a gateway to the mild Atlantic climate. The oceanic climate therefore penetrates both valleys to the furthest slopes and terraces. Oriented east-west, the hillsides enjoy a very sunny southern exposure: as in the Bourgueillois region, there is a privileged microclimate that is perfectly suited to Cabernet Franc. 

Chinon red wine is made almost exclusively from Cabernet Franc (or Breton), although Cabernet Sauvignon is permitted in blends up to a limit of 10%. White wine is made from Chenin (or Pineau de Loire). Depending on the type, Chinon wines reach maturity between 2 and 5 years or between 10 and 20 years. A high-quality vintage, Chinon is perfectly represented by estates such as Charles Joguet, Philippe Alliet, and Bernard Baudry. 

Rosé wines, which account for 4% of Chinon's production, are also very fruity. Chinon white wine, meanwhile, represents only 1% of production. Made from Chenin grapes, it can become very interesting after aging.

The Chinon AOC

Wine Red Chinon is regularly described as follows: its color is a deep ruby red, its nose is very fruity and aromatic, and on the palate, it has elegant tannins. This wine pairs very easily with meat, whether red or white, in sauce or grilled. The white is straw yellow, fairly clear, and the nose is rather citrusy, with notes of honey and quince. On the palate, it is fresh and light but still has a certain roundness. It will complement a fish-based dish very well.

Chinon: producers who measure up

TheChinon AOC is a wine sought after for its richness and balance. A few producers share the appellation in the heart of the Loire Valley and some have a good reputation. 

Discover, for example, the Grosbois estate and its 9 hectares of organically farmed vines. Its varied slopes enable it to produce four very different vintages, a fine example of the range of flavors that can be associated with red Chinon. 

You can also turn with confidence to the field of Philippe Alliet and his family. This winegrower produces wines that are recognized as among the best in the region. Four vintages of red wines for aging and a white Chinon are available to all lovers of the genre. Consider also the Château de Coulaine, an establishment that has belonged to the Bonnaventure family since 1300. It was even mentioned in the adventures of Gargantua written by Rabelais, a native of the region. However, its winemaking history is recent and it is now surrounded by 20 hectares of vines. The wines produced here are certified organic. Manual harvesting is one of the many guarantees of quality offered by this estate, which produces wines of the highest quality. 

We should also mention producer Bernard Baudry, whose vineyards stretch across various areas of the Chinon AOC. His expertise in winemaking guarantees excellent Chinon vintages.