Cabernet Franc AOC 2019

Wine Description for Cabernet Franc AOC 2019 by Clau de Nell

Colour & Appearance

Dense purple with luminous violet reflections – a Cabernet Franc that visually anticipates its youthful power.

Nose

An aromatic fireworks display of pure Cabernet Franc: mulberries and blackcurrant meld with violets and liquorice into a dense, yet remarkably floating aromatic complex. Beneath it a carpet of blackberries, blueberries, plums and damsons. The spicy side reveals itself with cinnamon, clove and anise, whilst herbal notes of lovage, rosemary and thyme underline the Loire-typical freshness. Meaty, almost wild attributes round out the picture – pure Cabernet Franc identity.

Palate

Surprisingly silky and low in tannins, this 2019 presents itself on the palate. The dark fruit appears wrapped in silk – cool, refined, elegant. Juicy and substantial at once, carried by a gripping acidity that gives the wine its cool structure. Red pepper – both raw and cooked – characteristically marks the finish. Floral notes return, the meaty-bloody dimension (in the best sense!) makes this Loire Cabernet unmistakable.

Finish

Long, cool and threaded through with the typical pepper note, with floral hints and a freshness that invites the next sip.

Terroir & Origin

The 45 to 55-year-old vines are rooted in loamy-silty soil on sandstone as well as in red flint on Tuffeau (limestone) – a soil combination that gives the wine its mineral tension and depth.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Hand-harvested in 12-kilo crates at modest 40 hl/ha yields. Following destemming, a 30-day fermentation with rare pump-overs. Twelve months ageing on fine lees in five to seven-year-old Burgundian Pièces, followed by a further six months in large oak – a patient vinification that pays off.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Braised pork cheeks with spiced jus, short rib with hoisin sauce and sautéed pak choi, but also vegetarian with beetroot baked in salt crust with basil pesto – the meaty-spicy side of the wine harmonises equally well with robust vegetable dishes.

Special Characteristics

A Cabernet Franc that masters the high art: density without heaviness, power without tannin dominance, Loire coolness with southern fruit abundance.