Cheverny Blanc 'Les Bruyères' 2015

The beautiful Loire Valley has long been famous for goat cheese. (Or is it goat's cheese? Or goats cheese? Goats' cheese maybe?) But one cheese in particular, preciously guarded by the locals that produce it, is esteemed above all others. The reason, it's lately become clear, is that the goats responsible are fed purely on a diet of heather (or Bruyeres, in French).

The challenge was to find a wine that went perfectly with such a delicious nibble. Something peary, appley, honeyed at the edge, and refreshing enough to cut through the creamy delight! A contest was launched, and ambitious winemakers from miles around set to blending the perfect tipple. The prize, of course, a goat. Made out of cheese. Decorated with garlands of heather.

Cheverny Blanc 'Les Bruyeres' is made at Confrerie de Oisly et Thesee which was founded in 1961 by winegrowers from the two areas who decided to share their commercial means. Together, they purchased a small cellar in Oisly, making an investment in fermenting rooms and winemaking equipment. By 1975 they were using thermo-regulating vats, which was rare at the time, which enabled the winery to produce wines of excellent quality whilst expressing typical characteristics of Sauvignon de Touraine.

Winemaker Agnes Bardet studied oenology in Bordeaux prior to joining the winery in 1990. Primarily she was in charge of analysis in the laboratory but changed roles to winemaker in 2003 and now works with a team of 9 people.

This fruity white wine has a pale yellow appearance with hints of green in the rim. An abundance of apples and pears aromas are present and accompanied by notes of thyme and honey on the palate. The Sauvignon Blanc grapes used proved the wine with its powerful flavours and freshness whereas the Chardonnay balances the wine with its subtle flavours, roundness and overall elegance.