Chinon

In Touraine, this designation covers 2,100 ha, planted mainly in Cabernet-Franc and Cabernet-Sauvignon, up to 25% of the vineyard authorized since 2000, for reds and roses, and in Chenin for the small proportion of whites produced. Depending on the terroir from which it comes, Chinon can be light and delicate, very aromatic (on red fruits), if it is produced on gravel soils on the banks of the Vienne. If it is produced on the tuffeau hills or flint clay trays it is full-bodied and hearty, on complex aromas of stewed black fruit, sweet spices and game. All have an intense cherry-purple color, which evolves towards brown hues with purple reflections. Some of the best producers are: Charles Joguet, Domaine de la Ronce, Philippe Alliet, Bernard Baudry.