Charles Joguet Les Petites Roches Rouge 2022

Les Petites Roches is the Chinon Cabernet Franc that founder Charles Joguet built his reputation on, now made under organic farming in the middle Loire. Chinon's vineyards run from sandy gravel terraces near the Vienne to limestone and clay slopes above, and these cooler soils and the continental edge to the climate keep Cabernet Franc fresh, with firm acidity and the herbal lift that defines the appellation. This cuvee is aged twelve months in oak barrels, longer than the entry wines, which gives the tannins more time to soften through oxygen exchange and adds a fine savoury depth without heavy oak flavour. The wine is a medium ruby. The nose shows red cherry, raspberry and red currant, with violet, pencil-shaving graphite and a dry, leafy savouriness. The palate is medium bodied and structured, the tannins fine and slightly firmer than the lighter cuvees, finishing dry and earthy. This is classic, food-friendly Loire Cabernet Franc built for the table. Serve at 16 degrees, and decant the 2022 for half an hour. It suits red meat and earthy autumn dishes.