2020 Domaine Philippe Tessier Cheverny Rouge "Le Point du Jour", Loire Valley, France

ABOUT THIS WINE

The 2020 Le Point du Jour is a single-parcel cuvée from Domaine Philippe Tessier, crafted from a blend of Pinot Noir, Gamay, and Côt—a triad emblematic of Cheverny’s red wines. The grapes are sourced from a site distinguished by its sandy-clay soils with silex (flint) content, offering natural tension and aromatic precision. Farmed biodynamically and harvested by hand, the fruit undergoes spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts, with partial whole-cluster vinification and gentle extraction.

Aged in used demi-muids and older barrels, the wine avoids overt oak influence while gaining textural polish. The nose is delicately perfumed with red forest fruits, dried herbs, and graphite, while the palate is supple yet energetic, with layers of wild berries, crushed stone, and a savory, earthy thread. This is a wine that rewards both immediate drinking and short-term aging.

Pair with roast duck, mushroom risotto, grilled trout, or aged goat cheese.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Domaine Philippe Tessier, based in Cheverny, is a leading voice in the Loire Valley’s natural wine scene. Since taking over from his father in the 1980s, Philippe Tessier has pursued a vision rooted in respect for nature, terroir expression, and minimal intervention. The estate is certified organic and follows biodynamic principles, avoiding all synthetic inputs and working in tune with the lunar calendar for key vineyard and cellar operations.

Tessier’s wines are known for their precision, vitality, and deep connection to place—particularly through native Loire grapes like Romorantin and Menu Pineau. He’s a staunch advocate of traditional techniques: indigenous yeast fermentation, low sulfur, and no fining or filtration when possible. His Cour-Cheverny bottlings are especially celebrated for capturing the essence of one of France’s most obscure yet historic varietals.