Winery: Domaine Pascal Brunet
Region: Loire Valley
Locale: Étilly
Appellation: Chinon Rouge
Designation: AOC
Site: Estate vineyards; clay with significant calcareous component; limestone substrate. Terroirs lean sandy/gravely in some sites, more clay in others.
Grapes: 100% Cabernet Franc
Fermentation and Aging: After a long (3 weeks), cool fermentation in stainless steel, the wine is racked to cement vats for elevage - the cement is more porous and counteracts Cabernet Franc’s tendency to become reductive.
Notes: Very limited production from this extremely artisanal producer. Classic notes of wild berry, underbrush, cassis, beautiful age-worthy tannins, and a slightly bitter but very pleasing finish.
Pairing: Roast beef, grilled chops (lamb or pork), duck. Try with Ratatouille or other eggplant dishes. Delicious, of course, with Chèvre.