Wines Chinon Château Coulaine - La Diablesse - 2015

Château Coulaine’s 2015 Cuvée La Diablesse from the Chinon appellation in the Loire Valley is a fine expression of this renowned region’s red wines. La Diablesse is a cuvée which likely places emphasis on the distinctive style of Chinon, often celebrated for its freshness, elegant structure, and aromatic complexity. While Cabernet Franc is typically at the core of red wines from Chinon, the precise blend here is not detailed, so it is safest to focus on the wine’s style rather than its exact varietal composition. 2015, regarded as an excellent vintage in the Loire Valley, generally produced wines of depth and generous fruit, balancing ripeness with classic tension.

The sub-region of Touraine, and Chinon more specifically, is characterised by varied soils, including limestone (tuffeau), gravel, and clay, lending nuance and finesse to the wines. The Loire’s temperate yet moderately cool climate, with influence from both Atlantic and continental weather patterns, favours a long, slow ripening of grapes and a naturally vibrant acidity. Chinon boasts a storied history, with centuries of vine growing along the river’s banks. Its red wines, particularly those grown under organic certification as is the case with Château Coulaine, tend toward purity and a nuanced, terroir-driven character.

A wine such as the Cuvée La Diablesse would pair beautifully with a range of dishes that celebrate both the regional heritage and the wine’s structure. Classic Loire Valley pairings include rillettes de Tours or rillons, roast duck, or a traditional torte tourangelle with wild mushrooms. The wine’s freshness and lively acidity also make it a fine match for grilled vegetable dishes or lighter game, such as rabbit or pigeon. For a vegetarian pairing, consider a lentil and beetroot salad or goat’s cheese tart, which will echo the wine’s earthy and herbaceous notes.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for an hour to allow it to reveal its intricate aromatics, then serve at 15-17°C. This temperature will highlight its freshness, balance, and supple tannins, allowing you to fully appreciate the refined personality that Chinon reds are known for.