La Diablesse AOC 2022

Wine Description for La Diablesse AOC 2022 from Château de Coulaine

Character

The name „La Diablesse“ – the she-devil – promises character, and this Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley delivers on that promise. Château de Coulaine, a traditional estate in Chinon, produces here a typical representative of the region: fresh, herbaceous and with that unmistakable mineral tension that characterises Loire Cabernets. The 2022 vintage brought wines with good concentration and vibrant acidity despite climatic challenges.

Terroir & Origin

Château de Coulaine lies in the heart of the Chinon Appellation, where Cabernet Franc on limestone and tuffaceous soils finds a distinctive expression. This geological formation gives the wines their characteristic minerality and freshness. The Loire’s temperate climate with Atlantic influences ensures moderate temperatures and a long growing season that favours aromatic finesse. The soils retain warmth and promote slow, even ripening of the grapes.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Cabernet Franc shows a completely different face on the Loire than in Bordeaux: here elegance, spice and floral notes dominate rather than power and tannin structure. Typical aromas include violet, blackcurrant, graphite and green pepper. Château de Coulaine works respectfully and with minimal intervention to preserve terroir typicity. The moderate alcohol content of 13% underscores the focus on drinkability and balance rather than opulence.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This Loire Cabernet is a classic food wine. It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, goat’s cheese (a regional staple), rillettes and charcuterie. It also shows its versatility with roasted poultry, herb-crusted lamb rack or mushroom dishes. The freshness and spice make it the ideal companion for French bistro cuisine – unpretentious, authentic and full of personality.