Description
CHINON DOMAINE PIERRE SOURDAIS, Les Cornuelles Blanc – Loire Valley
Grape variety: Cabernet Franc
The wine
Pierre Sourdais is the son of a well-known family of vignerons in Chinon located in the Loire Valley. The family has been winemakers for several generations. Pierre began managing the domain of 50 acres in 1981 with the following philosophy: “Even when inherited, the vineyards will only give good wines if you care for them lovingly”. The name of his property Moulin à Tan, comes from the ancient mill used to crush oak bark used by tanneries in the area.
This wine grows on terraces on the northern bank of the Vienne River. The soil is gravel, clay, and limestone with flintstone on top. The domain largely produces red wine from the cabernet franc variety, but its white is increasingly popular for its typicity and pinky golden hue.
The Moulin à Tan welcomes visitors for tastings or a tour of the winery, vineyards, and cellar, or to stay in one of its three-star guest houses.
Favorite Pairing
This wine can stand out as an aperitif, or with seafood, white meats, and some goat cheeses. The wine will also pair perfectly with salmon and trout.
The Region
Built on a hillside facing southward to the Vienne River and surrounded by vineyards is the village of Cravant. Just east of Cravant is the mediaeval town of Chinon with a fortress on top. This is where Joan of Arc first met the King of France to offer her help to fight the English. The Loire Valley with its many chateaux and wines is a great tourist destination.
Aroma
White flowers and fruit
Flavor
Fresh and supple with notes of white peach. Slightly mineral.