Review: 4 Wines from the Loire Valley, 2026 Releases

The Loire Valley doesn’t present itself in the same manner as Burgundy or Bordeaux. However, it does offer a wide range of affordable wines with a refreshing lack of pretense. Producers are every bit as obsessed with soil, weather and tradition as other regions, but not as much with scores or which varietal is “having a moment” in the press. Variations in vintages are readily acknowledged: some years feel more green and unfinished than others, but nearly all are easily approachable and food-friendly. Wines from the Loire reward drinking rather than decoding. You don’t need a seminar to enjoy these wines. Just a glass, some curiosity, and a willingness to enjoy the glass in front of you in the moment. Today, we are returning to the Valley for the first time in a bit, sampling four wines at sensible price points.

NV Langlois Crémant de Loire Brut Reserve Sparkling Review

This crémant leads with freshness, signaling the best of intentions, especially at a price not asking anyone to lower expectations. The nose opens cleanly with aromas of red apple and pear, followed by a soft lift of white flower. On the palate, lemon zest attacks and decays briskly, bright but not sharp, holding up the core of orchard fruit quite well. The bubbles are persistent without being aggressive, doing the job of accentuating the experience rather than hogging the spotlight. What lingers through the finish is a nice balance more than any single note, with the fruit and floral influences equally tempered and fading quite nicely in harmony. It’s an easygoing and smart option whether celebrating a specific occasion or just elevating a humdrum evening. A- / $25

2018 Domaine Pichot Clos Saint Mathurin Vouvray Sparkling Methode Traditionelle Review

Red apple and lemon peel lead the charge throughout. As the wine opens, a layer of roasted almond slips in, adding a welcome savory edge that prevents this from becoming too monotonous. The palate builds steadily rather than rushing the point, letting acidity do the heavy lifting instead of sheer volume. The finish lands brisk and clean, snapping everything back into focus just as it might wander. This is the sort of bottle suitable for a lazy weekend: easily able to anchor a brunch table, but restrained enough not to steal attention away from conversation or a second helping. B+ / $27

2024 Catherine & Pierre Breton Bourgueil La Ritournelle Rosé Review

This rosé arrives with big aromas of strawberry and cherry, accompanied by floral undertones and just a touch of spice. However, the palate shifts angular, with a sharp burst of lemon that cuts through the red fruit. It’s not long-lasting, but it is noticeable and sets the stage for a mild note of white tea on the restrained and lengthy finish. The acidity is plentiful, brisk but measured, keeping the wine energetic without feeling too austere. B+ / $33

2023 Domaine Fabrice Gasnier Chinon Les Graves Cabernet Franc Review

This Cabernet Franc delivers aromas of Ceylon tea and ripe plum on the nose that are anchored by earthy, forest-floor character and peppercorns, with each layer unfolding subtly at its own pace. The dark fruit stays firmly entrenched on the palate, but allows earthier notes and a surprising amount of oak eventually taking the lead. The oak influence and a faint trace of rhubarb stretch out on the finish, lingering just long enough to register. It’s built within the design of a classic Cabernet Franc profile but favors nuance for those who prefer to slow things down. A- / $22

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