DJs Loire Valley Masterclass

Damien Pinon is the third generation of his family to naturally farm Chenin Blanc in the chalky soils of Vernou-sur-Brenne in the appellation of Vouvray. His vines are old, creating lush, expressive white wines.

Ah Tuffo! This wine seems to never fail us. Not only is it a wonderful example of classic Vouvray it always delivers that little x-factor and bit of pizzaz we like. That lovely clay/waxed citrus and quince fruit comes at you straight off-the-bat with that slaty chalky thin that chenin does in the Loire so well. Some apple and pear drop generosity on the palate is cut by crunchy acidity and a little hit of phenolic grip that stick all those beautiful flavours to your mouth. There is a little floral flourish in the middle and spritz of mixed sweet spice on the finish. A cracker!

The old La Coudraye, which changed to La Côte back in the 2018 vintage to reflect the variety of origins for the fruit. This is a sample drawn before bottling. A vibrant hue in the glass, and a beautifully pure and eager nose of black cherry, blackcurrant and damson fruits. The palate remains true to the nose, with that same sense of purity and an underbelly of soft chalk, before a sappy cherry-skin character at the end. Modestly extracted tannins, firm but not over done, with nice acidity for this warmer vintage, this should evolve nicely for some years, but should be ready to go within a year or two. The alcohol is said to be 13%. CHRIS KISSACK, Thewinedoctor.com

This family estate has been nestled in the heights of the Layon Valley in Saint-Lambert-du-Lattay in Anjou for three generations. The vineyard extends over a beautiful plot of 31 hectares of which 26 hectares are under vine and 5 hectares are in "wild" areas in anticipation of a future plantation or simply to preserve biodiversity. Quentin, Véronique and Pascal Cailleau, the last generations at the head of the domain, manage their vines according to the principles of organic farming, with rigor and precision.

We absolutely loved this at a recent tasting so just had to put it into this pack. Don't be surprised if you hear us talking about it some more because this is what cab franc should be. Soft and supple but countered with some fine powdery tanning and a whicked little crunch to the fruit. It explodes in the glass with raspberry, cherry, redcurrant and balckberry thast just swirls around and around. So vibrant with awesome balance. This one is hard to put down.