Couly-Dutheil

Loire Cabernet Franc from Chinon's finest vineyard sites.

Couly-Dutheil produces Cabernet Franc from Chinon, in the Middle Loire's Touraine district. The winery's portfolio centers on three flagship expressions: Clos de l'Olive, Clos de l'Echo, and Clos de l'Echo Crescendo—each a pure varietal wine from the region's signature grape. Chinon Cabernet Franc is marked by bright acidity, mineral tension, and red-fruit character, with structure that rewards bottle age. The winery's wines have been assessed by Decanter, Wine Enthusiast, Wine Advocate, and Wine Spectator. Clos de l'Olive and Clos de l'Echo Crescendo rank highest among the trio in critical evaluation, while the core Clos de l'Echo offers entry into the house's style. These are wines rooted in terroir—the Loire Valley's cool continental climate and slate-rich soils shape their profile. Couly-Dutheil's focus remains on the single varietal and the specific vineyard block as the primary expression of place.