By Alain Lorieux
2019 'Expression' Chinon AOC

Wine Details
Origin: Loire Valley, France
Appellation: AOC Chinon
Blend: 100% Cabernet Franc
Farming: Hand-harvested, sorted twice
Winemaking: 5-6-week maceration with daily pump-overs
Aging: Aged in stainless steel tanks

Terroir
On the right bank of the Loire River, Alain Lorieux's 100% Cabernet Franc vines cover the clay-silica soils on the plateau that runs along the road from Chinon to the Cravant hills. This wine is a true expression of the land.

Tasting Notes
"Expression" has smoky aromas with a touch of cherry. The palate is open and deliciously with juicy black-currant fruits, the right amount of tannins, and well-balanced acidity. Enjoy with all types of roasted and grilled meats.

Background
The Lorieux domaine is located in St. Nicolas de Bourgueil and Cravant on either side of the Loire River, the result of the merger of two vineyards. Brothers Alain and Pascal work these lands, with Alain producing Chinon wines and Pascal producing Saint-Nicolas de Bourgueil. Terroir defines the specificity of these Loire Valley wines.
[Information provided by Serge Dore Selections]

ALAIN LORIEUX Chinon 'Expression' 2019
Rating: 92
Value: $55
Drink: 2022-2032
Country: France
Region: Loire Valley
Appellation: Chinon
Editor: J. D’Angelo
Issue: February, 2022
Importer: Serge Dore Selections
This is an excellent Chinon that instantly opens in intense aromas of beautiful red berries and cherries that are woven together with fresh florals, smoldering ash, leather and a dash of pepper. On the palate this is fresh and inviting with a medium body that is structured with fine tannins and a silky texture which is underlined by a lovely mineral character. Drink this now, or watch it evolve over the course of the next decade.

Pascal and Alain Lorieux 2019 Expression (Chinon)
Rating: 88
Designation: Expression
Variety: Cabernet Franc
Appellation: Chinon, Loire Valley, France
Winery: Pascal and Alain Lorieux
Alcohol: 13%
Bottle Size: 750 ml
Category: Red
Importer: Serge Dore Selections
Date Published: 7/1/2021
Reviewed by: Roger Voss
This wine emphasizes fruit over structure, giving it an open, friendly character, packed with black-currant fruits and acidity. It will develop well and be ready to drink from 2022.