The 2023 "Coteau de La Biche" offers a refined, classic expression of one of Vouvray’s most historic vineyards. With roots in viticulture dating back to 1770, the Pichot family nurtures this chalky, steeply sloped vineyard with sustainable and organic farming practices, creating a vibrant Chenin Blanc of exceptional mineral tension and lively acidity. This dry style emphasizes purity and elegance, bridging the heritage of centuries-old winemaking with precise, contemporary technique under winemaker Christophe Pichot.
The Coteau de La Biche vineyard is located just above the village of Vouvray on hills composed predominantly of chalk and clay soils, which confer distinctive minerality and freshness to the wines. The site benefits from excellent drainage and sunlight exposure on the slopes, promoting slow, balanced ripening of grapes. The cool Loire climate supports bright acidity and aromatic expression, hallmarks of top Vouvray Sec wines.
Domaine Pichot is one of Vouvray’s oldest and most respected producers, with documented family vineyard ownership since 1770 and winemaking knowledge passed through generations. Today, Christophe Pichot leads the estate, focusing on low-yield, hands-on viticulture and minimal intervention in the cellar. The domaine is certified HVE3 and organic-in-conversion, with a move toward biodynamic practices, ensuring terroir-driven wines with respect for the environment and tradition.
The grapes are hand-picked and gently pressed. Fermentation occurs primarily in stainless steel vats at controlled low temperatures, with a small portion fermented and aged in used oak barrels to add texture without dominating the vibrant fruit and minerality. The wine spends about six months on fine lees before bottling, which enhances mouthfeel and complexity. The result is a dry, fresh wine with complex flavor layers and a lively, long finish.
Pouring a deep and brilliant golden color, this wine shows enticing aromas of pear, green apple, citrus zest, and subtle floral notes, complemented by chalky minerality. On the palate, it reveals bright acidity, refreshing tension, and medium body with layers of juicy fruit and a stony, mineral-driven finish. Its balance of freshness and texture makes it versatile and food-friendly.
