Reuilly Blanc 2024

The domaine itself is very young, founded in 2020 by Joseph and Marie de Maistre after careers outside wine. Joseph, originally from the Centre-Loire, was inspired by his grandfather (a Cognac producer) and trained in both France and South Africa before returning home to start his own project. Rather than building from scratch, they took over two historic estates: one in Reuilly and the Prieuré de Saint-Céols in Menetou-Salon, whose vineyard history stretches back as far as 1190, when land was entrusted to monastic orders. This combination gives the winery an interesting dual identity: a new-generation producer with a fresh, hands-on philosophy, working with vineyards that are deeply embedded in Loire history and terroir.

In Reuilly, their 24 hectares lie on classic Kimmeridgian soils, limestone rich in ancient marine fossils and shells, formed when the region was once under sea. First cultivated by monks in the 7th century, these vineyards are now farmed organically, with biodynamic practices on selected parcels, producing wines of freshness, minerality and lift. 6 months on the fine lees in stainless steel.

A refined Loire Sauvignon Blanc with citrus, orchard and tropical fruit layered over white flowers and subtle green herbs. The palate is fresh and precise, with pronounced mineral character from limestone soils, balanced acidity and a clean, elegant finish.

Seafood such as sea bass, pasta and fresh salads

The Loire, France's longest river, is home to many much celebrated and quintessential French grapes. From the once ubiquitous-in-the-UK Melon de Bourgogne by the Atlantic coast, to the home of Sauvignon Blanc in Sancerre, via some of the world's best Chenin and crunchy Cabernet Franc, Gamay & Pinots. There is quality all around. Being at the northernly limit for winemaking, the wines are hallmarked by their crisp, fresh, crunchy fruit and high acidity, where reds may sometimes struggle to ripen and whites nearly overdeliver on acidity. The 69 appellations that make up the larger region are grouped into smaller sub-regions with predominantly single variety wines leading the way. As you move east the climate changes markedly from maritime to continental as the soils change from flint and limestone to the hard granite of central France.