Domaine Tessier, Cour-Cheverny Blanc 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. Cour-Cheverny 2023 is 100% Romorantin from vines up to 20 years old grown on silica-clay soils. After malolactic fermentation takes place, vinification and ageing is split between stainless steel and concrete vessels. Incredibly smooth with a precise structure perfectly balanced by bright acidity, fine minerality and a creamy, malolactic mouthfeel. Nose of candied lemon, raw honey and pear blossom which flows perfectly into elegant flavours of white pear and wet slate. Cour-Cheverny 2023 would pair well with pan-seared sea bass, lemon-beurre meunière and samphire.