100% Cabernet Franc. As with the Moulins Blanc, this label was initially created to provide a home for Guiberteau’s organic-in-conversion grapes. The vines are primarily located in Montreuil-Bellay and include a healthy portion of old-vine fruit from a recently acquired parcel on the Brézé hill. The vines vary in age from 10 to 80 years.
The wine was raised in stainless steel only, with just five days on skins: the idea is to offer a more open, delicious and early-drinking wine than the village bottling (also at a more accessible price)—and it works. Teeming with the brightness and energy of the year, it’s a vividly scented Saumur with florals, berry fruits, spice, earth and lovely gravelly minerality. The palate is elegant and lithe, drawing on the deeper soils of Montreuil-Bellay, while the Brézé fruit brings chalky tannins and crunchy freshness. So much fun to drink, yet impressive substance, too. The only issue this year is that yields were 50% down. Don’t delay!