Domaine des Orfeuilles Vouvray Sec 2021 from the Loire Valley offers a classic expression of this renowned appellation. Typically, Vouvray wines are crafted from Chenin Blanc, although exact grape information is sometimes not specified on the label. In a dry (sec) style, this wine is expected to display aromas of green apple, quince, and citrus, accompanied by floral notes such as acacia or white blossom. The 2021 vintage in the Loire generally yielded wines with bright acidity, which brings freshness and vibrancy to the palate, supported by the characteristic minerality found in the region's terroir. A precise vinification process, often in stainless steel or neutral vessels, tends to enhance the purity of fruit and the natural linearity of the wine.
Vouvray is situated in Touraine, at the heart of the Loire Valley, an area celebrated for its white wines due to its cool, semi-continental climate and diverse soils, dominated by tuffeau limestone and clay. These soils contribute to the distinctive minerality and age-worthy nature of Vouvray wines. The region has a long history of viticulture, dating back to the Middle Ages, with a reputation for producing wines in a range of styles, from bone-dry to lusciously sweet, though the sec style, as in your bottle, remains particularly prized for its finesse and balance.
Domaine des Orfeuilles Vouvray Sec is a highly versatile companion at the table. Its acid and mineral backbone pair beautifully with seafood — think oysters, scallops, or grilled river fish. Poultry in citrus or cream-based sauces, pork with apples, and goat’s cheese (notably the regional Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine) are all excellent matches. For a local pairing, rillettes de Tours or a simple salad with walnuts make wonderful accompaniments.
Serve this Vouvray well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. Give the bottle a little time in the glass to allow its subtle aromatics to blossom, and it should deliver both immediate pleasure and potential for ageing, should you wish to cellar a few bottles.
