Why it matters
The producer
Famille Bougrier traces its family origin to the Plateau des Hauts Lieux in Saint Georges sur Cher, where Achille Guenault-Cousin created Domaine Guenault. Nicolas Bougrier joined the business in 2015, and Sophie also represents the house in France and abroad. Nicolas is now CEO, with his two sisters due to join company management.
The company works with around 100 winegrowers who deliver their production to three regional cellars. Bougrier handles maturation, vinification, blending, bottling and marketing, with international business accounting for nearly 60% of turnover.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
The Loire range follows three regional districts. Caves de la Tourangelle is in Saint Georges sur Cher and handles Touraine Sauvignon Blanc, Touraine Rouge, Touraine Rosé and Rosé de Loire. Caves de l'Angevine is in Vaudelnay in the Anjou vineyards, where it vinifies and ages Rosé d'Anjou and Cabernet d'Anjou. Caves de la Nantaise is at Le Pallet in the Nantes vineyards and is managed by Lionel Métaireau.
Each cellar keeps a defined group of regional wines tied to its part of the Loire, from Touraine whites and rosés to Anjou wines and the Nantes vineyard area.
Wines to know
The range in view
Touraine Sauvignon Blanc is the white wine handled at Saint Georges sur Cher. Touraine Sauvignon 2022 is made from Sauvignon Blanc, with gooseberry, fresh cut grass, a mineral edge, juicy citrus and tropical notes. The palate is round and fruity, ending with mineral notes and light acidity.
The red range includes Les Terrasses St-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, made entirely from Cabernet Franc in the two reviewed vintages. The 2022 wine shows raspberry and summer fruit with crunchy, peppery, leafy character. It is fresh and lively at 12.5% alcohol. The 2023 wine shows green leaves, blackberries, forest floor and cherry, with a drinking window from 2024 to 2028.