The Loire Valley is all the rage. It’s probably not so much the Loire Valley that has changed as the fact that consumers have finally come to understand what the region has to offer. We usually drink white and red from here, but now we have tasted two rosé wines that are both delicious and a bit special.
They are made from an unusual grape called pineau d’aunis. It is well-known for natural wine lovers; you can make juicy, light, and refreshing red wines from it.
These two wines come from Coteaux du Vendômois, a small Loire appellation of 125 hectares located northeast of Tours and known for its pineau d’aunis. In total, there are only nine winegrowers in the appellation Coteaux du Vendômois, three of which are part of the cooperative.
The producers often combine winegrowing with other agriculture, but that doesn’t diminish their commitment to the vines.
Domaine J Martellière, Cuvée Jasmine Gris 2024, Coteaux du Vendômois : This is a gris, a very pale style of rosé wine. The colour comes from the pressing of the grapes, and the juice has no further contact with the skins. Light and fresh, with a hint of white pepper in the taste. A pleasant wine to cool off with in the evening when the heat of the day has calmed down. 6 euros on site.
Cave du Vendômois Le Cocagne Gris 2024, Coteaux du Vendômois: This is also a gris but with a slightly darker colour. Some structure with a hint of spice and melon towards the end, very dry, crispy, and with a fresh finish. Excellent. 7 euros on site.
