Touraine Noble-Joué

AOC by decree dated 19th April 2001, amended 8th June

 

Vineyards

Location: Between the Indre and the Cher, south of the Tours conurbation

Vineyard area: 35 ha.

History: There is evidence that Noble-Joué wines were served in the court of King Louis XI, and that their popularity reached a peak during the 19th century. In 1939 the area applied for AOC status, but the application was forgotten when the war started. The winegrowing area was partially destroyed, then became a victim of  urbanization; it ceased to exist until 1975 when it was reinstated by a group of winegrowers, and today Noble-Joué wines can once again be seen gracing the dining tables of Tours.

Soils: Limestone, chalky clay and siliceous clay

Climate: Temperate with an oceanic influence

 

Wines

Noble-Joué is a very distinctive Vin Gris, a delicate blend of three Pinot varietals: Pinot Meunier to give body and strength, Pinot Gris for fruitiness and finesse, and Pinot Noir to add roundness and length.

Average annual production over the last 5 years: 1,400 hl.

Base yield: 55 hl/ha.

Varietals: Pinot Meunier (main varietal, minimum 40%), Pinot Gris (minimum 20%), Pinot Noir (minimum 10%).

Growing practices: 

Planting density: 6,500 vines per hectare

Pruning: Guyot single or double; short pruning

 

Tasting Notes

Appearance: From translucent pale rose pink with a hint of grey to raspberry pink with a gleam of orange.

Nose: Highly aromatic, with notes of red berries (strawberry, raspberry, and redcurrant), violets and fruit drops.

Palate: Light, supple, delicate, and refreshing.

Serve at 8°C.

 

Food/Wine pairings

As an aperitif, with pizza or a variety of summer dishes (tabbouleh, Salad Niçoise, mixed salads, grilled meat or fish etc.), charcuterie, fresh pasta.

 

Aging Potential

Best enjoyed young.