Villargeau Coteaux du Giennois Blanc 2023

Domaine de Villargeau Coteaux de Giennois Blanc 2023 - Loire Valley, France
$24   Soul Wine Price $20.40

The family affair of Domaine de Villargeau was started in 1991 when brothers Jean-Fernand and François Thibault began clearing abandoned hillsides that had been left dormant since phylloxera had ravaged the area late in the 19th century. They chose sites with good south/southwest exposure with the flinty soils the area is known for and planted them with the Giennois specialities Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Gamay. Over the years the brothers’ sons, Marc, Yves and Christophe, have joined the domaine bringing with them skills and knowledge attained working in various sectors of the wine industry over the years and in multiple countries. The sons were instrumental in converting to sustainable vineyard practices and eventually being certified organic.

To obtain optimal maturity the grapes are tested plot by plot before being hand harvested. In the winery they undergo a slow, gentle press and are fermented in stainless steel, temperature controlled tanks. The wine is aged on its lees before bottling. There is no mistaking this wine for anything other than Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc with its crisp acidity, citrus fruits, white flower aromas and clean, mineral driven finish. Serve with ceviche or sushi or asparagus risotto if it happens to be in season. (Anders)