Domaine De Noiré Winery Guide

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Last updated: June 4, 2024

Winery Overview

One of the most respected names in the Loire Valley, the superb Domaine De Noiré family-run wine estate has long been regarded as the benchmark for Cabernet Franc – delicious, soft, and elegant wines for any occasion. The effervescent owner and winemaker, Jean-Max Manceau, makes wine without compromise and with a dedication solely to high quality. This has resulted in his wines pushing the boundaries, particularly the astonishing special cuvée Elegance. The wine’s description suits it perfectly!

The property has a long and distinguished history, dating back to the 18th century. The Blouin family acquired the estate in 1759 and built the first winery at Domaine De Noire. The property drew its name from the exceptional terroir of the “Clos de Noire,” a legendary neighboring vineyard. The estate remained in the family’s control for four generations, each lovingly passing on the wine-making legacy to their children. As a result, its reputation for quality and excellence grew. The property was relatively unaffected by the French Revolution and turmoils in the 20th century and enjoyed a stable and prosperous existence. Then, in 2002, it caught the eye of Jean-Max, who was undoubtedly a man about town, or in this case, the Loire Valley! Not only was he president of the Chinon Appellation body, but he also sat at the head of a commission that aims to keep the practices of Loire growers and winemakers true to the region’s traditions. No one was better qualified to manage the estate.

Manceau and his wife Odile have taken the property to new heights and produced top-quality wines since taking over Domaine’s running in 2002. Our guests to this beautiful and tranquil estate will find it hard not to be infected by their combined enthusiasm for Cabernet Franc—these are very dedicated artisans who seek, above all, to capture the purest expression of this native varietal. They cultivate an exceptional terroir, a combination of gravel and chalk ideal for Cabernet Franc; tasters are wowed by the perfume and elegance – notes of violets and flint on the nose. Truly, this is a connoisseur’s wine!