The wine appellation of Chinon

Chinon

The historic town of Chinon is home to one of the Loire Valley’s most celebrated Cabernet Franc wines.

The vineyards of Chinon

Location: 19 communes located on both sides of the Vienne River just south of the Loire.

Surface Area: 2,300 hectares / 5,683 acres

Soil: Chinon has three main soil types: alluvial silt terraces made up of gravel and sand along the banks of the Vienne; Turonian chalk outcrops also along the river; and flinty Senonian clay and sand outcrops. The sand and gravel soils on the river’s flood plains produce light, elegant wines for early drinking. The clay and tuffeau limestone soil of the hillsides produces fuller-bodied wines meant for long aging.

Climate: A maritime/oceanic climate. Vineyards planted on slopes running east-west benefit from ample sunshine.

Wines of AOC Chinon

Annual Production: Approximately 110,000 hl / 2,905,893 gallons, including 5% rosé and white wines.

Grape Varieties: Red: Almost exclusively Cabernet Franc; up to 10% Cabernet Sauvignon permitted in blend

Tasting notes

White Appearance: Pale yellow Nose: Pear and quince coupled with light honey notes Flavors: Medium to full-bodied with pronounced fruitiness

Red Appearance: Garnet or ruby red Nose: Dark berry and fruit notes with mild spice and herbal qualities Flavors: Light to medium bodied with red and black berry flavors, moderate acidity and tannins.

Rosé Appearance: Deep pink Nose: Bright cherry with herbaceous notes