Why it matters
The producer
François-Xavier Barc and Gérald Vallée are the vine growers and winemakers behind Complices de Loire. Vallée manages Domaine de la Cotelleraie in the heart of Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, while the partnership works across Loire Valley appellations from Sancerre to Saumur. Integrated and organic farming methods are used in the vineyards. The organic range follows a plot-based approach, with terroir expression at its centre.
In 2010, François-Xavier Barc and Gérald Vallée founded Complices de Loire as an association of vine growers and winemakers. The new partnership made wines from Loire Valley appellations from Sancerre to Saumur. It also developed an organic range of red, white and rosé wines using a plot-based approach.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
The Loire Valley appellations in the range run from Sancerre to Saumur. The named bottles narrow that span to two formal categories: Les Graviers Chinon and Expression Touraine Sauvignon are listed under Touraine, while Les Calcaires Saumur-Champigny is listed under Anjou-Saumur. The appellation name places each wine within a defined part of the valley, alongside its colour and cuvée name.
Wines to know
The range in view
The organic range spans red, white and rosé cuvées, with plot-based winemaking as its organizing approach. The named bottles show two red positions and one white: Les Calcaires Saumur-Champigny, Les Graviers Chinon and Expression Touraine Sauvignon. The reds carry tannin, while the white has a fresh palate.
Les Calcaires Saumur-Champigny has a deep dark red colour, floral blueberry aromas and forest-floor notes. Acidity carries the finish. Les Graviers Chinon is brilliant red with violet hints, raspberry, jalapeño and red pepper, followed by sour cherry and smoky tomato on a silky palate. Expression Touraine Sauvignon is pale yellow, with floral and mineral aromas and ripe fruit on a powerful palate.