Charles Joguet Chinon Les Varennes du Grand Clos

Founded in 1957, Charles Joguet is widely regarded as one of the estates responsible for elevating Chinon from a regional curiosity to one of France's most respected Cabernet Franc appellations. Through meticulous vineyard work and a commitment to bottling individual sites separately, the domaine helped demonstrate the remarkable terroir diversity of the Loire Valley.

Les Varennes du Grand Clos comes from gravelly and sandy soils over limestone, producing a style that combines aromatic lift with impressive depth. The 2021 vintage opens with aromas of red currant, black cherry, violet, graphite, tobacco leaf, and crushed stone. On the palate, the wine is energetic and finely balanced, delivering vibrant fruit, silky tannins, and a mineral-driven finish that lingers beautifully.

What makes Joguet so compelling is its ability to remain unmistakably Loire Valley. Rather than chasing power, the wine focuses on transparency, freshness, and place. The result is a Cabernet Franc that feels refined, food-friendly, and deeply authentic.

For the July collection, this bottle represents everything we love about French bistro wines: historic producer, organic farming, moderate alcohol, outstanding food compatibility, and a story that most collectors have yet to discover.