Clos de l’Écho is more than just a wine; it’s a piece of history. Its name whispers tales of the past, evoking the echoes bouncing off the towering walls of the Chinon fortress, said to carry voices across the vineyard for up to seven syllables. One can almost picture Rabelais himself, five centuries ago, strolling through these vines and exclaiming: “By my faith, I would gladly taste this divine nectar again, for it seems Bacchus himself has pressed it with his celestial hands to delight our souls!” And what would the echo have replied? The story alone is enough to make this wine intriguing, but the taste confirms its legendary status.
The Domaine Couly Dutheil, spanning 90 hectares in the heart of the Touraine region, is a benchmark for the Chinon appellation. Since its founding in 1921, the estate has crafted wines that have earned widespread acclaim, both in France and internationally. Whether red, white, or rosé, each cuvée is an invitation to discover the rich complexity of the terroir. Clos de l’Écho, however, stands apart—the historic vineyard of Chinon, nestled at the foot of the fortress, where legend has it that the first Chinon vines were planted, possibly even belonging to the family of Rabelais himself. A visit to this estate is a must for any wine lover, with its modern tuffeau stone cellar and awe-inspiring 10th-century caves hidden beneath the fortress itself.
This 2014 vintage unveils a deep, dark red hue with black highlights, promising a wine of substance. On the nose, it offers an expressive bouquet of ripe red fruits, dominated by raspberry, intertwined with subtle undergrowth notes. With time, the aromas evolve, revealing hints of spice and fine oak. The palate is velvety, full-bodied, with a beautiful harmony of structure and finesse. The tannins, once firm, have softened into a silky embrace, while the judicious oak aging provides depth without overpowering the fruit. A captivating balance between freshness and indulgence, where jammy raspberry flavors blend with a touch of earthiness and a refreshing acidity that lingers gracefully.
Compared to other Chinons of the same vintage, Clos de l’Écho stands out for its refined power and elegance, maintaining the signature lightness of Loire Cabernet Franc. Where some may lean towards rusticity, this wine delivers a polished, silky texture that makes it a pleasure to savor now. While undoubtedly built for aging, it has reached a lovely maturity, offering a beautifully evolved aromatic profile that still holds great promise for years to come.
For pairings, consider the unexpected—a roast pigeon with figs, where the tender, gamey meat will echo the wine’s supple tannins. A more classic choice would be a Sainte-Maure de Touraine, the local goat cheese, whose creamy texture will enhance the wine’s bright acidity. And for a plant-based option, a wild mushroom risotto will beautifully complement its earthy undertones.
Retailing around €25 to €30, the Clos de l’Écho is an exceptional find for those seeking a Chinon with character, depth, and charm. Whether enjoyed now in its prime or cellared for future pleasure, it remains a shining example of what this historic terroir can produce. A wine to be savored, shared, and celebrated.
