Saumur Red, Les Epinats

THE WINE : A lieu-dit, or named place, encompasses a group of small plots of vines. It comprises a unique terroir defined by its territorial, cadastral and historic unity. The alchemy between the soil, topography, climate, and grape variety results in appellation contrôlée wines with a unique profile and outstanding quality. Respect for the terroir combined with the expertise of winegrowers who love what they do produces superb wines.

VINIFICATION : The grapes are totally destemmed and  fermentation  takes placein temperature-controlled stainless steel vats at 28°C. Light daily pumping over during the first third of alcoholic fermentation, followed by short maceration to extract just the right amount of flavour and tannin.

Ageing : Malolactic fermentation in our 25-metre-deep cellars.  Aged for 6 to 10 months prior to bottling in galleries dug out of limestone tufa, away from light and variations in temperature.Terroir

Soil : Les Epinats is a lieu-dit in the  commune of Brossay, in the southern part of the Saumur appellation. Les Epinats has two types of soil: deep soil with red stones called   terre à silex (silex = flint), and soil that is not very stony, with a higher proportion of clay due to the deterioration of Jurassic limestone. These geological factors, combined with good sun exposure, create an ideal environment for grape growing, with average to late ripening.

VARIETAL : Cabernet franc (100%)

Ageing potential: 5 years

TASTING NOTES : Ruby-red colour. Intense bouquet of ripe red fruit (blackcurrant and plum).  Starts off quite round and smooth, going on to display soft tannin and an aftertaste of morello cherry. 

FOOD PAIRING : Serve well-chilled (12-14°C), this red wine goes admirably with grilled or roasted red meats.  It is especially delicious with rabbit sauce chasseur.