Les Charmes blanc AOC 2021

Wine Description for Les Charmes blanc AOC 2021 by Charles Joguet

Character

An unusual project from the Joguet house, which is primarily known for its Cabernet Franc wines from Chinon. This Chenin Blanc showcases the versatility of the Loire and presents itself with the typical tension between fruit and minerality that makes this grape variety so fascinating in the Loire. With 13.5% vol. and a dry orientation, it embodies a modern, powerful style that reflects the warmth of the 2021 vintage.

Terroir & Origin

The Loire is the natural home of Chenin Blanc, where the grape variety develops its characteristic minerality on tuffeau and limestone soils. The maritime climate with continental influences provides the necessary freshness, whilst long growing seasons enable complexity and ripeness. The 2021 vintage in the Loire was characterised by warm, dry conditions that led to concentrated wines with good ripeness.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Chenin Blanc is considered one of the most versatile grape varieties in the world – from bone-dry to noble sweet, from young and fresh to capable of ageing for decades. In its dry expression, the variety typically shows aromas of quince, apple, pear and honey, underpinned by a distinctive acidity structure and mineral notes. Charles Joguet, traditionally devoted to red wine, presumably brings the same care and terroir understanding to this white wine project.

Food Pairing Recommendations

The acidity structure and minerality make this wine an ideal companion for river fish such as pike-perch or pike, classically prepared with beurre blanc. It also harmonises beautifully with goat’s cheese from the region, such as Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine, as well as with scallops, sweetbreads or poultry in cream sauce. The structure also carries richer preparations with mushrooms or truffle.