Jean-François Mérieau "Valala" Sauvignon Blanc, Loire Valley, France 2023

FROM EUROPEAN CELLARS:

THE WINE: Valala is the compelling new project from Jean-Francois Mérieau, one of the benchmark growers of the Touraine. Jean-Francois saw an opportunity to produce a delicious and affordable range of wines from sustainably-farmed parcels owned by some of his friends. The Sauvignon Blanc is produced from limestone hillsides surrounding the Cher river. It is aged on its lees for 5 months to give a more aromatic profile while keeping the bright, crisp acidity that we all love in Sauvignon Blanc from this historic region.

THE PRODUCER: It sometimes seems like Jean–François Mérieau’s mind goes faster than his hands. Although he already produces some of the most respected and sought-after wines of the Touraine, he’s not satisfied and is currently looking for new ways to express the old vines and rich landscape that is the Domaine Jean-François Mérieau.

Based in the tiny village of Saint-Julien-de-Chédon (which doesn’t seem much changed since the 17th century), Jean–François’ property stretches to almost 35 hectares planted to Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Noir, Cot, Pineau d’Aunis, Gamay, and Chardonnay. Many of the vines are quite old, including the Pineau d’Aunis, which is over 100 years old, and the Cot, the youngest of which are 50 years old and the oldest over 100. Unlike most Touraine producers, the vineyards are plowed and the property is in conversion to organic certification. Vineyard work is all manual, and no commercial yeasts are used in the vinification of a dizzying array of wines – in typical fashion for the Touraine. Mineral whites, racy and savory reds, sparkling wines, and sweet wines are all on the menu at this address.