Domaine de la Noblaie

Jérôme Billard is a name to watch in Chinon. His wines are some of the most impressive examples from the Loire Valley. Although the domaine has a long history, dating back to the 16th century (it may once have been the property of the Knights Templar), the vineyards were abandoned until Jérôme’s grandfather acquired them in 1952. It’s under Jérôme, who studied in Dijon and has worked for the Moueix family at both Pétrus in Bordeaux and Dominus in California, that it has come to prominence. Jerome’s vineyards lie at the highest point in Chinon and the sloping limestone soils are home to organically farmed Cabernet Franc. He combines the best of both traditional and modern techniques (including using a remarkable 15th century fermentation vat) to produce Chinon that has pure fruit and good ageing potential.