Description

In a nutshell:
A bright and vibrant Loire Valley Cabernet Franc with a charming blend of red fruit and earthy notes.

The lowdown:
This lovely Chinon kicks off with aromas of ripe red and black fruit, with a touch of liquorice for good measure. On the palate, it’s got smooth tannins, balanced by a bright acidity and a pinch of blackcurrant and the finish is long and lingering. After fermentation, it gets a few months in stainless steel tanks to keep the fresh Cabernet Franc fruit character intact. Overall, it’s a cracking example of a Chinon red – full-bodied but still delightfully fresh and fruit-forward.

The Producer:
Château Coudray-Montpensier is one of those proper medieval Loire châteaux of the type you see in the magazine travel sections. Apparently, Joan of Arc once stayed here during the Hundred Years’ War. The vineyards have been here for centuries as well. In 2005, Dr Christian Feray of Château Moncontour in Vouvray took the reins, initiating significant restorations to both the château and its vineyards, since when the wines have built themselves a pretty solid reputation. With the terroir a mix of clay, limestone, and sandy soils, ideal for Cabernet Franc, their beautifully expressed Chinon reds capture the real essence of the region.

When to drink:
This wine would pair well with red meat dishes, such as slow cooked lamp shoulder, or a cheese course.