AOC Reuilly

Reuilly wine traveled far beyond its slopes. Sold in Bourges and Vierzon, it also reached Flanders and England by way of the Cher and the Loire. In 1701, the jurist Thomas de la Thaumassière listed it first among Berry wines. In 1864, the mayor of Reuilly, a winegrower, presented Napoleon III with a barrel of white wine.

Two Vineyard Islands, Six Villages and Pinot Beurot

The Reuilly vineyards fall into two separate islands 7 km (about 4 miles) apart. One runs along the Arnon and Théols rivers; the other lines the left bank of the Cher, on the edge of the Quincy vineyards. Both sit on a narrow strip near the water, on gentle slopes facing south, southeast or east. Together they cover about 300 hectares (740 acres), a five-year average reported by the Centre-Loire wine board.

The appellation spans six communes in two departments: Chéry, Lazenay, Lury-sur-Arnon and Preuilly in the Cher, and Diou and Reuilly in the Indre. So the village that gave the wine its name lies in the Indre, while two-thirds of the communes belong to the Cher.

For rosé, Reuilly also grows Pinot Gris, known locally as “Pinot Beurot.” This traditional grape of the area brings freshness and finesse. It can make the rosé on its own or be blended with Pinot Noir, in whatever proportion each producer chooses: the appellation sets none.

History of the AOC Reuilly

Located in the heart of the Berry region, in the Loire Valley, AOC Reuilly, though still relatively unknown, carries a rich viticultural history. As early as the 7th century, the Reuilly vineyard was mentioned, and it gained a notable reputation due to the quality of its wines. This appellation from the Centre-Loire, revived after the phylloxera crisis in the 20th century, stands out for the diversity of its red, white, and rosé wines and its unbeatable value for money.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Reuilly

• Climate: Characterized by a continental influence, the climate presents cold winters and hot summers, ensuring a uniform ripening of the vines.
• Soils: The terroir of Reuilly combines clay, limestone, and gravelly sands, giving the wines remarkable uniqueness and finesse.

Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Sauvignon: The Signature Grapes of AOC Reuilly

AOC Reuilly has three key grape varieties: the elegant Pinot Noir for red and rosé wines, the vibrant Sauvignon Blanc for whites, and the subtle Pinot Gris (used exclusively for rosés). This trio of grapes forms the foundation of AOC Reuilly wines.

Style of AOC Reuilly Wines

Red Wine (Pinot Noir): A clear ruby-red color. The nose evokes fresh red fruits (cherry, strawberry, raspberry) with a hint of spice and floral notes. AOC Reuilly red wines are typically smooth and light, with a refreshing brightness.

Rosé Wine (Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris): Pale pink with silver highlights. Aromas of citrus, peach, and apricot burst on the nose. The palate is tender and refreshing.

White Wine (Sauvignon Blanc): Pale yellow with green highlights. The bouquet reveals notes of citrus (lemon), flowers, and white fruits. The palate is elegant, mineral, and refreshingly crisp.

Best Food and Wine Pairings with AOC Reuilly Wines

Here are some recipe ideas to pair with a bottle of Loire wine from an estate or château in AOC Reuilly white, red, or rosé:

• White Wine: Goat cheese (Cœur de Touraine cendré), white asparagus flan, buttered langoustines.
• Rosé Wine: Red mullet fillets, tomato pissaladière.
• Red Wine: Charcuterie board, rillettes du Mans, rabbit saddle.

Reuilly FAQ: Rosé Color, Aging Potential and Harvest Time

What color is Reuilly rosé?

Reuilly rosé has a pale color, called “œil de perdrix” (partridge eye). It is supple and delicate. For rosé, the appellation bans enological charcoal, which is used to strip color: that light hue comes from the grapes and the winemaking.

How well does white Reuilly age?

White Reuilly is enjoyable young and can also age: its natural acidity gives it that potential. Dry, fresh and fruity, it often recalls citrus and blackcurrant bud, sometimes honey.

When does the harvest start in Reuilly?

In Reuilly, the harvest often starts as early as mid-September, on a date set each year known as the ban des vendanges. The custom goes back centuries: in the 14th century, a charter from the Duke of Berry already set harvest dates and taxes on wine sales.

Where can you buy Reuilly direct from the winemaker?

You can buy Reuilly, sold by the producer, on Avenue des Vins. Every wine’s page shows its appellation and region.

See also: AOC Coteaux du Giennois - AOC Châteaumeillant - AOC Pouilly-Fumé