Established in 1921 by Baptiste Dutheil and currently managed by René Couly and his wife Madeleine Dutheil, the House of Couly-Dutheil has become virtually synonymous with Chinon and is widely believed to be one of the finest producers in the region. With only 90 hectares planted in Chinon (as well as an additional 7 hectares in neighboring Saumur-Champigny), the family has time to lavish the vines with attention and craft wines with the utmost care.

The 2018 Couly-Dutheil Chinon Rouge "Baronnie Madeleine"  has an enticing bouquet of red and black fruits layered with notes of pencil shavings, dried herbs, and the earthy minerality characteristic of cabernet franc. Subtle hints of violet and pepper add a layer of complexity. The medium-to-full-bodied palate is well-structured, with flavors of dark cherries, plums, and black currants underscored by savory undertones of pepper and tobacco that add depth and dimension. The tannins are fine-grained and well-integrated, providing just enough grip to give structure without overwhelming the fruit characters.

Check out the press!
95 points, Wine Enthusiast:
"This is a confident, characterful Chinon. Perfumed aromas of Darjeeling tea, dried crushed violet blossom, white mushroom, sawdust, and black plum greet you on the nose. Slightly grippy tannins frame the purple fruit that remains vibrant through the end." (9/30/24)

ABV: 15%