Domaine Tessier, Romorantique 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. Romorantique 2023 is 100% de-stemmed Romorantin macerated on the skins for 3 months in Georgian qvevri. A further 2 months fermentation takes places in open vats. Pouring in a golden-amber hue this presents a complex nose of baked yellow fruits, dried apricot, liquorice and marigold. The flavour profile is surprisingly crisp and highly mineral with grippy tannins and an effervescent acidity. This would benefit from being carafed before serving. Romorantique 2023 would pair well with chicken liver pâté and pickled walnuts.