Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgeuil doesnt quite get the attention it deserves among the appellations of the Loire. It is located to the east of Bourgeuil, running parallel to the Loire. There are three principal terroirs: Closest to the river is the alluvial soil of the ancient flood plains where pockets of ‘Perruches’ or pebbles can be found lying in heavy clay; perfect for vines to  prosper. Moving north is the tongue of Gravieres, an elongated bank of deep alluvial sandy soil which is the main body of the AOP, and then the Coteaux, where clay and limestone dominate, and where some of the oldest and finest parcels lie. 

Domaine de la Cotelleraie is located behind the main village in a handsome limestone  petit château, which houses the family house, the fermentation cellar, where only large oak foudres are used, and the cave, deep underground, where barrique and demi-muid serve to age the parcel cuvées. there are 27 hectares in total, all organic, although only around 20 hectares are planted to vines, Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. 

Gerald is the fourth generation to make wine here, and the Vallée name is minor royalty in these parts (his brother Matthieu is the owner of Château Yvonne in Saumur). The style of wine they produce is uncompromisingly terroir led, intelligent, and enjoyable to drink with little work required to explore the essence of each plot. What stuck with us on tasting was the balanced, finessed tannins, mineral acidity and expressive nose of each wine. They are drinkable now as they are age-worthy too, so true Loire reds, which also offer exceptional value.