From: Loire Valley, France

Varietal: Gamay

Taste: In the glass, this pétillant naturel (Pét-Nat) wine exudes medium intensity aromas of dried cherries, cranberries, and a subtle herbal tinge of thyme and marjoram. As the wine opens up, secondary notes of forest floor, dried flowers, and a touch of leather become more pronounced. Upon the first sip, the palate is greeted with a burst of fresh red fruit flavors, including juicy red cherries and ripe cranberries, accompanied by a hint of flintiness and a smoky character. This medium-bodied wine displays a mouthwatering high acidity, which is perfectly balanced by its dry nature and the gentle tannic structure. The fine mousse of bubbles adds a delightful texture and vibrancy, while a peppery spice emerges on the moderate finish, leaving a lasting impression.

Pairing: The versatile nature of the Patrice Colin Perles Rouges makes it an exceptional choice for a wide range of dishes, from appetizers to main courses. This sparkling Gamay pairs well with charcuterie boards, featuring an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and artisanal bread. It also complements grilled meats and vegetables, sausages, and burgers, enhancing the flavors while cutting through the richness of these dishes.

Embrace the French origins of this wine by pairing it with traditional Loire Valley dishes, such as rillettes de Tours (pork pâté), goat cheese from Chavignol, or Tarte Tatin (caramelized apple tart). The wine's acidity and effervescence will harmonize beautifully with the rich flavors of these regional specialties.

For a delightful vegetarian option, consider serving the Perles Rouges alongside a savory mushroom and leek tart (we've added a recipe below!) or a warm lentil salad with roasted root vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette. The wine's earthy notes will complement the umami flavors of the mushrooms, while its acidity will brighten up the hearty salad.

Leek, Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tart
By Celia Barbour

About. Patrice Colin, an 8th generation vigneron, continues a family legacy that stretches back to 1735. Nestled in the northernmost reaches of the Loire Valley in the Coteaux du Vendomois, Colin's organic vineyards yield a delightful range of wines, including the exquisite Perles Rouges. This sparkling red wine, produced in the ancestral method or pétillant naturel (Pét-Nat) style, is reminiscent of a high-quality Lambrusco and offers a unique tasting experience.

Crafted from 100% Gamay grapes grown on the limestone slopes of the Loir (the Coteaux du Vendômois vineyards lie in the Loir and Cher département in the Loir valley to the west of Vendôme), the Perles Rouges exudes a beautiful balance of red fruit aromas and flavors, with a hint of flintiness and a smoky character. This medium-bodied wine is dry, with pleasant tannins, and leaves a fresh, crisp aftertaste. The winemaking process utilizes natural yeast and no additives, allowing the terroir and vintage to express themselves authentically.

A lively and fun sparkling wine, the Perles Rouges captivates the senses with its secondary bouquet of forest, dried flowers, dried cranberry, and strawberry. On the palate, it reveals crisp red cherry fruit notes complemented by leather, earth, and pepper, with frothy bubbles that dissipate in the glass. The wine's medium intensity nose features dried cherries and cranberries with an herbal tinge, while the palate showcases fresh red fruits, mouthwatering high acidity, and a fine mousse of bubbles.

The Perles Rouges is a versatile choice for various dishes, making it an excellent match for charcuterie, cheese, grilled meats and vegetables, sausages, and burgers. Its production process ensures low sulfite content and vegan-friendliness, making it an inclusive option for various dietary preferences.

The Coteaux du Vendômois appellation, located in the Loir valley to the west of Vendôme, covers 27 communes and spans 120 hectares. With an annual production of 4,600 hl, the region offers a diverse selection of white, red, and rosé wines. The area enjoys a modified oceanic climate, where oceanic and continental influences meet, with the Loir river regulating temperatures and around 680 mm of rainfall per year.

With its rich history and dedication to organic and sustainable practices, Patrice Colin's Perles Rouges is a testament to the exceptional quality and character that the Loire Valley has to offer. As you sip this sparkling gem, take a moment to appreciate the centuries of tradition, expertise, and passion that have come together to create a truly remarkable wine.