# La Désirée Chardonnay (2023)

- **Producer:** Les Frères Couillaud
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Loire Valley, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €11
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, pear, lemon, peach, pastry, biscuit, butter

## About this wine

La Désirée Chardonnay is a white wine from the IGP Val de Loire region, produced by Les Frères Couillaud. The name 'La Désirée' translates to 'The Desired,' reflecting the careful crafting of this wine. The Couillaud family has a winemaking tradition stretching back over 150 years in Mouzillon. Their estate, Château de la Ragotière, was acquired and restored in 1978, with a focus on sharing their wines globally. The vineyards are situated on schist and mica-schist soils. This wine is recognized for providing significant value for its price point.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyards planted on schist and mica-schist soils.
- Producer has a winemaking history over 150 years old.
- Name 'La Désirée' translates to 'The Desired'.
- Known for offering exceptional value for money.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and lively freshness complement delicate proteins and creamy textures. Its subtle fruit notes can be enhanced by citrus and herb elements in dishes, while its balanced acidity cuts through richness.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for La Désirée Chardonnay by Les Frères Couillaud emphasizes minimal intervention. In the vineyard, practices include using minimal treatments, avoiding chemical fertilizers, and regular soil plowing to promote the vines' natural resilience. Techniques like voluntary short pruning and manual de-budding are also employed. While specific fermentation details for this vintage are not available, the producer is known for aging their wines on their lees ('sur lie') for extended periods. This aging process contributes to the wine's roundness and palate enrichment.