Tasted April 2008

Domaine Charles Joguet (a living legend in the Loire, not only for his wines but also for philosophy and poetry) makes 7 or 8 different cuvees of Cabernet Franc each year, each an expression of different vines and soil types. Ultra-traditional, the wines are often a little backward when young but become richer with age.

Grape: Cabernet Franc

Region: Chinon, Loire Valley, France

Soil Type: Gravel over clay (the Clos de la Cure is only 2 ha in size)

Winemaking: Traditional warm fermentation (at up to 30 celsius) and ageing in French oak.

ABV: 12.5%

Tasting Note
A complex wine with deep yet soft blackberry and currant fruit flavours, and wonderful layers of earthy spices. The nose carries tantalising glimpses of violets, yet the palate is dominated by meaty tannins, those delicious herbal black fruits and hints of szechuan pepper. Would be awesome with pink calves liver, sage mash and a rich wine jus. Mmmm...

Cellaring
Not yet at it's best, this wine will shine in a year or two and will keep up to 2015

If you like this, why not try...the more approachable and mature Chateau des Hureau, Saumur-Champigny, or it you're feeling flush (and can find it) Cheval Blanc, the most famous proponent of Cabernet Franc in Bordeaux.