Domaine Tessier, Phil-en-Bulle 2024

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. Phil-en-Bulle 2024 is a blend of Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay. Grapes are direct-pressed and fermented in stainless steel before secondary fermentation takes place in the bottle. An underlying richness is cut by sharp, zippy acidity which makes for an ultra-refreshing aperitif. Notes of lemon tart, sour mirabelle and sherbet with a perfectly light bubble structure. Phil-en-Bulle 2024 would pair well with oysters with aguachile.