Domaine Noire Chinon Rouge 'Soif de Tendresse' 2022

Sun-ripe and smooth as silk: the most satisfying and serious wines from
Touraine hail from the cellars of Domaine de Noiré in Chinon. Winemaker
Jean-Max Manceau, a Chinon native, has long been a champion of
the region’s terroir and his own wines set a higher standard for the
qualitative levels that Chinon can achieve. What sets Noiré apart is not
only its impeccable terroir but also its fierce dedication to sustainable
winemaking, having been certified organic for years. Manceau’s wines
strike a balance between playful and profound—delicate perfumes reveal
a multilayered mouthful of summer-ripe fruit and spice with each sip.
CERTIFIED ORGANIC
WINERY: Domaine de Noiré
WINEMAKER: Jean-Max Manceau
ESTABLISHED: 2001
REGION: FRANCE • Loire Valley • Chinon
APPELLATION: Chinon AOC
BLEND: 100% Cabernet Franc
VINEYARDS: Estate vineyards, facing south, are located on a high-altitude
plateau near Chinon, rich in flint stones. These dark stones absorb the heat
of the day to release it slowly overnight, helping grapes ripen fully.
AGE OF VINES: 35 to 50 years
WINEMAKING: Hand-harvested. Grapes macerate for 48 hours at low
temperatures in stainless steel tanks. Fermented on indigenous yeasts at
controlled temperatures and aged in tank. Bottled in early spring.
TASTING IMPRESSIONS: Aromas of ripe red fruits, light baking spices.
Fruity, smooth and tangy; impeccable fruit/acid balance.
PAIRING SUGGESTIONS: As an aperitif with dried salami or other
appetizers; salads; fresh French cheeses; grilled chicken with fresh herbs
NOTES: In French, the wine’s name means “thirst for tenderness.” Stylistically,
the wine is made for early pleasure, to enjoy slightly chilled in summer.