Domaine Gigou Coteaux du Loir Pineau d'Aunis 2023

The Wine

Here's a fun little bottle.  A light and spicy red made from 100% Pineau d’Aunis grown on old, high‑canopy vines on flinty clay and tuffeau soils — a terroir that naturally amplifies the grape's peppery spice and delicacy. The grape was once known as Chenin Noir, and although it was once stated to be a relative of the region's famous white grape, Chenin Blanc, DNA studies indicate it is only a very distant relative (no mutation or parentage). It is now believed that 'Chenin Noir' is simply an old name for Pineau d'Aunis, an old grape with medieval roots.

The wine features notes of red berries, rose petal, white pepper, and crunchy acidity. The vintage brought a cooler, even ripening season to the northern Loire, giving this bottling extra lift and aromatic purity.

Pairings: Charcuterie, roast chicken, or a soft and tangy goat cheese like Valençay.

The Winery

The Gigou family has championed Pineau d’Aunis since the 1970s, long before it ever thought it would enjoy anything close to its current revival. The grape is one of the region's most ancient varieetals and enjoyed centuries of popularity before falling out of favor. Today's wine lovers who have discovered the joys of light-bodied reds have led to the  grape's resurgence.

Now run by the second generation, Domaine Gigou farms organically and works with some of the oldest vines in the appellation. Their style is resolutely traditional: whole‑cluster ferments, gentle extraction, and a commitment to preserving the rare, historic character of the northern Loire.