Maison Darragon, Vouvray Demi-Sec Heritage 2022 vs Reata Sonoma Coast Chardonnay White Wine

Maison Darragon, Vouvray Demi-Sec Heritage 2022

Vouvray demi-sec is one of the Loire's most underrated styles, and Maison Darragon's Héritage bottling is a fine argument for paying it more attention. Made from Chenin Blanc grown on the tuffeau soils of the Vouvray appellation, it sits in that fascinating middle ground between dry and sweet - enough residual sugar to give it weight and generosity, but with Chenin's characteristic acidity keeping everything taut and focused. Quince, beeswax, and preserved lemon dominate, with a waxy, almost lanolin-like texture that is pure Chenin Blanc at its most expressive.