1995 Domaine Pichot Vouvray Moelleux Coteau de la Biche

Domaine Pichot traces its history to the late 18th century, when the estate consisted of 7.5 acres of vineyards and a large cellar. Today the estate is run by Jean-Claude Pichot and his son Christophe, descendants of the original owners, and many acres have been added over the decades. Domaine Pichot now includes 60 acres in three separate Vouvray vineyards. The estate is planted entirely to Chenin Blanc, and produces dry, semi-dry and sweet white wines, as well as a sparkling wine. Wine reviewers have been complimentary. Le Guide Hachette has written that the “estate offers a gamut of wines that are well-made, precise and notable for their expressive minerality.”

Vouvray is on the right bank of the Loire River, in one of the most picturesque and photographed regions of France. It is close to the city of Tours and the many famous châteaux of the Loire Valley. The appellation takes its name from the commune of Vouvray and it was awarded appellation d’origine contrôlée status in 1936. The 5,000 vineyard acres within the appellation are almost exclusively planted to Chenin Blanc, though the white grape Arbois is permitted. The Chenin Blanc wines of Vouvray are noted for their naturally high acidity, and the wines can be made in a variety of styles from dry to sweet, and sparkling wines are also allowed. The wines are also notable for their ability to age. Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley’s finest producers are highly prized by wine enthusiasts with a taste for distinctive whites.