Pelle Menetou-Salon Morogues Rouge 2023

This Loire Valley Pinot Noir comes from Morogues, the best-known village in the Menetou-Salon appellation, just west of Sancerre. Domaine Pellé is a family estate now run by Paul-Henry Pellé, the fourth generation, who has farmed the vineyards organically since taking over in 2007. The family is widely regarded as one of the top producers in the appellation.

The grapes are picked by hand from hillside vineyards on Kimmeridgian clay and limestone, the same type of soil found in Sancerre and Chablis. These soils give the wine its fresh, mineral backbone. Expect bright red fruit such as raspberry and redcurrant, a light floral lift, gentle tannins and lively acidity. The wine is light on its feet but has real structure.

Serve it slightly cool with roast chicken, duck, mushroom dishes or soft goat cheese. It’s a very good value for anyone who loves Burgundy.