Aromatic white wines are a shortcut to impressing even the pickiest wine snob. Think bottles bursting with terpenes: floral Muscat, dramatic Zibibbo, bold Gewürztraminer, sharp Riesling, or flirtatious Torrontés. These grapes glow with citrus, flowers, and herbs, whether dry or sweet. When lost in a wine shop, just whisper “terpenes” and follow the aromas, your most fragrant allies.

We went to the Loire Valley expecting a quick look at Château de la Roche aux Moines, but left with unforgettable memories, a car full of Nicolas Joly’s wines, and a love for misty winter vineyards. The warmth, the landscape, and the legendary Clos de la Coulée de Serrant completely won us over.