Touraine Chenonceaux, Domaine La Bruyere 2024

Sitting between the lighter Touraine Sauvignons and the lean, mineral edge of Sancerre, Chenonceaux is Loire Sauvignon with a bit of extra depth. Zesty citrus leads the way, followed by delicate white florals and a lively mineral streak from the flint and limestone soils. Time on lees adds texture and complexity, rounding out the fresh pear and red apple flavours that follow the initial citrus burst. Crisp, refreshing, yet slightly riper and fuller than most Loire Sauvignons, it's beautifully balanced with a clean, bright finish.

Great with richer seafood - grilled scallops, grilled lobster, or creamy seafood risotto and the like - the bright citrus and minerality cutting through beautifully. Also a cracker with a generous wedge of goat's cheese.

Established in 1973, Domaine Chainier is a significant player in the Loire Valley. Balancing their role as a négociant with the stewardship of 250 hectares in the heart of Touraine, they cultivate classic Loire varieties. This includes sourcing grapes from the newly formed Touraine-Chenonceaux appellation. They’re a domaine that manages to strike a good balance between tradition and a forward-thinking approach.