Chinon

The vineyards of the Chinon appellation cover an area of 2,400 hectares, producing 110,000 hectolitres of wine in three colors every year. There are three main types of soil in Chinon. First, the alluvial terraces (old and recent) along the banks of the Vienne, composed of gravel and sand, then the Turonian limestone hillsides and knolls (yellow tuffeau) along the riverbanks, and finally the plateaus and knolls composed mainly of flinty clay and sand (Senonian). The wide confluence of the Loire and Vienne rivers is a gateway to the mild Atlantic climate. The oceanic climate penetrates both valleys to the furthest slopes or terraces. Facing east-west, the slopes benefit from a very sunny southern exposure: as in the Bourgueillois region, we find a privileged microclimate perfectly suited to Cabernet Franc. 

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

Rosé wines, which account for 4% of Chinon production, are also very fruity. White Chinon represents only 1% of production. Made from Chenin grapes, it can become very interesting with age.

AOC Chinon

The wine Chinon red is regularly described as follows: a deep ruby color, a fruity, aromatic nose and elegant tannins on the palate. This wine goes very well with meats, whether red or white, in sauce or grilled. The white is straw-yellow, fairly clear, and the nose is more citrusy, with hints of honey and quince. On the palate, it's fresh and light, but still has a certain roundness. A perfect match for fish dishes.

Chinon: producers up to the challenge

L'AOC Chinon is a sought-after wine for its richness and balance. A handful of producers share the appellation in the heart of the Loire Valley and some have a good reputation. 

Take a look at Domaine Grosbois and its 9 hectares of organically farmed vines. Its varied slopes enable it to produce four very different cuvées, a fine example of the range of flavors that can be associated with red Chinon. 

You can also turn with confidence to the domain of Philippe Alliet and his family. This winemaker produces some of the region's finest wines. Four cuvées of mature reds and a white Chinon are on offer for all wine lovers. The Château de Coulaine, owned by the Bonnaventure family since 1300, was even mentioned in the adventures of Gargantua written by Rabelais, a native of the region. However, its winegrowing history is recent, and it is now surrounded by 20 hectares of vines. The wines produced here are certified organic. Hand-picking is one of the many hallmarks of the estate's high quality standards. 

We'd also like to mention producer Bernard Baudry, whose vineyards stretch over various parts of the Chinon AOC. His viticultural expertise guarantees excellent Chinon cuvées.