Nico Pinot Noir Val de Loire 22

The Loire Valley is one of France's most important wine-producing regions -- often referred to as the "Garden of France," alluding to the region's enormous amount and variety of agriculture. Stretching for over 200 miles along the Loire River, it is the third-largest wine-producing region in France, boasting more than 185,000 acres of vineyards.

The Loire is known for its varied terroir and a dizzying array of wine styles, ranging from sparkling to red, white, and rosé wines. In 2019, it produced approximately 2 million hectoliters of wine, underlining its importance to the French wine industry. The valley is also home to numerous prestigious Appellations d'Origine Contrôlée (AOCs), all serving as benchmarks for quality in French wine.

Although not the most common grape variety in the Loire Valley, Pinot Noir has a significant presence, especially in AOCs like Sancerre and Menetou-Salon, where it's commonly used to produce reds and rosé. Pinot Noir from the Loire Valley tends to be lighter-bodied, with bright acidity and elegant red fruit flavors. This sets it apart from the deeper, earthier qualities of Pinot Noir from Burgundy and the ripe, juicy characteristics of West Coast U.S. Pinots. The Loire's cooler climate and diverse soil types are the key contributors to the unique profile of Loire Valley Pinot Noir.

Nicolas Idiart, a passionate wine winemaker and négociant from Bordeaux, joined forces with Joseph Verdier, a highly respected Loire Valley winemaker, to create Maison Idiart Nico IGP Val de Loire Pinot Noir. Nicolas brings an international perspective, with experience in regions from South America to Europe, while Verdier brings decades of expertise in Loire Valley viticulture. Together, their complementary skills and shared passion for the region's terroir allow them to produce high-quality wines at very reasonable prices that beautifully express Loire Valley terroir.

In your glass, Nico IGP Val de Loire Pinot Noir is a super-tasty expression of Loire Valley Pinot Noir. After a swirl or two, you'll enjoy notes of ripe red cherry, raspberry, and a delicate hint of earthy forest floor. These aromas transition smoothly into a middle palate that echoes the nose, complemented by subtle hints of spice, all leading to a well-balanced finish.

The light to medium body and vibrant lift make this generous Loire Pinot Noir perfectly suitable for the porch, patio, or your next dinner party. While Nico IGP Val de Loire Pinot Noir will serve admirably as a porch-sipper, it's also remarkably food-worthy. Its bright, lifted red fruit profile makes it an excellent companion to a nearly endless variety of foods. Consider pairing it with grilled salmon and roast chicken; of course, it will sing next to a charcuterie board featuring a range of French cheeses. Vegetarian dishes like mushroom risotto also make an excellent match.