Domaine Philippe Alliet Chinon L’Huisserie 2020

Domaine Philippe Alliet is a reference for Cabernet Franc in the Loire appellation of Chinon, where the family makes only a handful of reds. L'Huisserie comes from gravel and sand soils over a limestone base near the river, lighter, free draining ground that suits this early ripening variety and gives a fresh, fruit driven style. The cool, temperate Loire climate ripens Cabernet Franc slowly, keeping its acidity bright and its herbal, peppery character in balance. The wine spends twelve months in concrete tanks and a further twelve months in large wooden casks, an ageing that softens the tannins and adds depth while the inert concrete preserves the pure fruit and the large oak adds little obvious wood flavour. It is bright ruby, the nose offering redcurrant, plum and crushed raspberry with the graphite and leafy edge typical of the grape. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, with fine, slightly grainy tannins, lively acidity and a savoury, stony finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees in a standard red glass, decanting young bottles. It works with roast and grilled meats and earthy dishes.