La Varenne ‘Tradition’ Cabernet Franc, Chinon, Loire Valley, France 2023

La Varenne, a family-owned estate managed by Laurent and Stéphane Gouron, has been producing wines for five generations in Cravant-les-Côteaux, just east of Chinon. The estate spans 72 acres surrounded by forests, with all vineyards located within the Chinon appellation. The Gouron family practices sustainable agriculture, emphasizing minimal intervention to allow each parcel’s unique terroir to shine through in their wines.

• WINEMAKER: Laurent and Stéphane Gouron

• FARMING: Sustainable agriculture; green cover crops between rows; short pruning and leaf thinning to optimize grape health and terroir expression.

• VARIETY: 100% Cabernet Franc

• TERROIR: Estate vineyards in Cravant-les-Côteaux, Chinon A.O.P.; gravelly-sandy soils on the plain, sandy-limestone slopes, and silex-flinty hilltops; vine age between 35–40 years.

• VINIFICATION: Hand-harvested beginning September 22, 2023; each parcel harvested and vinified separately to preserve its unique characteristics; destemmed before pressing; fermented and aged in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks located in hillside caves; bottled unfined and unfiltered on April 25.

• AGING: Aged in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and fruit character.

• TASTING NOTES: This wine is rich and smoky with black fruits and a texture that is still young. It is a generous wine, with balanced acidity and a typical smoky aftertaste.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Pairs well with grilled meats, roasted poultry, and aged cheeses.