Claude Courtois Les Cailloux du Paradis Racines 2019

Claude Courtois Les Cailloux du Paradis Racines is a natural, organic and biodynamic red from the Loire Valley, made by Les Cailloux du Paradis and bottled as Vin de France. Since the 1990s Claude Courtois and his son have farmed 13 hectares of once-abandoned vines, which now carry more than 40 grape varieties grown together. Racines is a field blend led by Cabernet Franc with Cabernet Sauvignon, Côt and other red varieties. The Loire's cool, marginal climate and sandy, gravelly soils give a light, fresh style with modest alcohol, here just 12 percent, and the bright acidity and herbal lift typical of Cabernet Franc. Farmed biodynamically and made as a natural wine, with native yeasts, minimal handling and little or no added sulphur, it ages in oak barrel, where gentle oxygen exchange settles the tannins while keeping the fruit clear and unforced. The wine is bright, light to medium ruby, the nose offering fresh raspberry, redcurrant and plum alongside dried herbs, earth and a peppery edge. The palate is light bodied, fresh and savoury, with fine tannins and a long, herbal finish. Serve at 14 to 16 degrees, lightly chilled. It suits roast pork, poultry and vegetable dishes.