Marquis de C 2021, Domaine de la Garreliere

The Story: A Nod to Puss in Boots

The name Marquis de C is a charming and poetic reference to the 'Marquis of Carabas' from the famous fairy tale Puss in Boots—the fictional nobleman who became a marquis simply because the cat told the king he was one. Yet, tucked away behind this fabulous tale lies a seriously structured, layered top-tier wine. François and Pascale Plouzeau run this beautiful 18-hectare estate situated on a stunning hillside just outside Richelieu, in the southern part of the Touraine appellation. Since 1985, they have been working completely organically and strictly biodynamically, with François relying entirely on his intuition. As he likes to say: “My nose is my best advisor!”

A Unique Limestone and Pebble Terroir

Although the Loire Valley is not traditionally known as a classic Chardonnay region, this specific micro-terroir proves the absolute opposite. The vines for this cuvée average 30 years of age and are deeply rooted in a soil of siliceous clay over a solid substratum of bedrock limestone. This particular interaction between the rich clay and the limestone bedrock gives the Chardonnay grape a rare combination of opulent power and a crisp, saline structure.

Tasting Note

This is a voluptuous, ripe Chardonnay that convinces from the very first sip. Creamy, rich, and velvety on the entry, yet blessed with a deep, saline undertone that keeps the wine perfectly balanced. On the nose, you will recognize ripe notes of honey, subtle toast, and occasional hints of juicy tropical fruit, beautifully complemented by a fresh touch of young buttermilk. We tell you: this is a true Chardonnay in all its pure forms. Familiarly recognizable in character, yet just a bit more exciting and distinct.

Vinification: Patience, Oak, and Sur-Lie

The grapes are harvested entirely by hand and subjected to highly rigorous selection. In the cellar, the wine receives royal treatment. Both alcoholic and malolactic fermentations take place in oak barrels: 1/4 in new oak and 3/4 in older wood with a very soft toast. This keeps the oak influence subtle and supportive. The wine then ages sur-lie in large 500-liter vats, which creates that signature velvety mouthfeel. The wine is bottled unfiltered, and—true to the Vin Nature philosophy—only an absolute minimum amount of sulfur is added.

Wine & Food Pairing

An absolute dream at the dinner table. This rich structure demands serious pairing partners: think of Dover sole pan-fried in butter, creamy pastas with poultry or chanterelles, seared scallops, or ripe, soft cheeses.

Aging Potential: Beautifully open and drinking perfectly right now, but possesses the structure to develop wonderfully over the next 3 to 5 years.