Clos du Chêne Vert Monopole AOC 2016

Wine Description for Clos du Chêne Vert Monopole AOC 2016 from Charles Joguet

Colour & Appearance

Lightly transparent garnet red with an emerging brick-red rim – a wine that begins to show its maturity elegantly, without sacrificing vitality.

Nose

Restrained, almost meditative in its discretion. Peonies and violets weave through notes of tomato leaves and fresh foliage. Beneath lie cherries and black olives – a combination typical of Loire Cabernet, presented here with remarkable finesse. This wine whispers where others shout.

Palate

On the palate, a fascinating transformation unfolds. The cherry notes and olive tones from the nose combine with a subtle extract sweetness, whilst firmly structured tannins provide backbone. Scrubland, foliage and vegetal notes – which some might perceive as flaws – are here an expression of authentic terroir. Remarkable is the absence of any coarseness: the wine displays subtle complexity, floral elegance and spicy depth, carried by vibrant freshness and irresistible charm.

Finish

Medium length with persistent freshness, the tannins linger, accompanied by floral and spicy echoes.

Terroir & Origin

The Clos du Chêne Vert is a steep, two-hectare monopole site on the right bank of the Vienne near Chinon. Named after a monumental oak tree that has graced the vineyard since the 12th century. The south-facing aspect, soils of clay, gravel and deep limestone, as well as the exposed position make this the estate’s earliest harvest site – and one of its most characterful.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Cabernet Franc. Cool pre-fermentation maceration at 10°C, four-week maceration in wooden vats at a maximum of 21°C. Assemblage of free-run juice and finest press wines, followed by 15-16 months‘ maturation in French oak (one-fifth new barrels annually) and a further six months in tank for harmonisation.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Roast guinea fowl, calf’s liver with shallots, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto or medium-aged goat’s cheese from the Loire such as Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine.

Special Features

A monopole from Charles Joguet, one of the pioneers of modern Chinon. This wine embodies the subtle side of Cabernet Franc – complex, polished and characterised by impressive finesse.