Domaine Tessier, Cheverny Rouge 2023

20 kilometres from the banks of the Loire river, Domaine Tessier can be found nestled between three forest massifs - Sologne, Cheverny and Chambord. The microclimate created here directly influences the vines of the estate, where two appellations coexist (AOC Cour-Cheverny and AOC Cheverny Blanc, Rosé and Rouge). The vineyard was established in 1961 by Roger Tessier and has remained in the family ever since, with Simon taking over in 2020. Like most of Loire, the soils here are predominantly limestone overlain by marine deposits and silica-clay, which combine to form the region’s highly mineral wines. Cheverny Rouge 2023 is an assemblage of Pinot Noir, Gamay and Cô from silicious-poor clay soils. Juicy notes of red berries and peppercorns with crunchy, refreshing tannins. Cheverny Rouge 2023 would pair well with creamy pāua dumplings and burnt kombu.