Loire Whites
by Tom Wolf
Rarely is a page in this newsletter so beautifully set up to guide you through a meal from beginning to end as this one, but that shows you the incredible diversity of the Loire Valley’s white wines.
From the western reaches of the region, near the Atlantic coast, Muscadet makes a claim as possibly the world’s greatest blanc d’apéro. At its best, a sip of Muscadet feels like a quick cold plunge, and isn’t that how you want to feel as you start an evening—refreshed and energized? For the first course, a Sauvignon Blanc from the other end of the Loire Valley will fit the bill. Our Menetou-Salon is classy and complex enough to serve with a main course, but it also sings alongside a variety of salads or vegetable-based appetizers.
Finally, moving back west to the Touraine, we arrive in the home of Chenin Blanc, where Céline Champalou answers the question: what would a Vouvray with Meursault sensibilities and ambition taste like? A grand expression of Chenin, Le Portail is exquisite alongside lobster, scallops, or buttermilk roast chicken.
2025 Muscadet “Le Clos de la Butte”
France | Loire
Brisk, citrusy, and saline, Eric Chevalier’s Clos de la Butte is an invigorating blanc to start your evening.
2025 Menetou-Salon Blanc “Le Prieuré”
France | Loire
Like the best Sancerres and Reuillys that originate from Kimmeridgian soils, this Menetou-Salon expresses its terroir more than its grape. Waves of zesty texture keep coming, making this one of the most irresistible Sauvignons I’ve tasted recently.
2023 Vouvray Sec “Le Portail”
France | Loire
Sourced from a special vineyard and aged for eighteen months in barrel, Le Portail is an unusually regal Vouvray. Notes of pear, chalk, and Meyer lemon soar out of the glass in an expression of Chenin that is opulent, but never overboard. Highly recommended!