Benoit Courault Les Tabeneaux 2023

Benoit Courault farms an old estate at Faye d'Anjou in the Loire, working organically and biodynamically after training in natural methods with Eric Pfifferling. This red blends Cabernet Franc and Grolleau as a Vin de France, made with minimal intervention and no additions. The Loire schist and sandy soils and the cool, marginal climate keep alcohol low at twelve per cent and preserve bright acidity and aromatic lift. Cabernet Franc brings red fruit and a leafy, peppery edge, while Grolleau adds pale colour and freshness. The wine sees time in old wood, which allows slow oxygen exchange and rounds the texture without adding oak flavour. Fermentation with wild yeasts and no fining or filtering leaves the wine transparent and lively. The colour is light ruby. The nose shows raspberry, red currant and crushed herbs, with a wild, savoury note. The palate is light bodied and juicy, the tannins soft and the acidity fresh, finishing on red fruit and thyme. Serve cool at 14 to 15 degrees. It pairs with charcuterie, roast chicken and grilled vegetables.