Vintage - 2017

Country - France

Region - Loire

Grape Varieties - Cabernet Franc 100%

Alcohol by volume - 13%

Bottle - 75cl

Producer - Domaine Lavigne

This domain is run by Pascale Lavigne and her husband, Antoine Véron. Based in Varrains in Saumur-Champigny, they own 42 hectares of vineyard (40 hectares of Cabernet Franc and two of Chenin Blanc). They cultivate their land sustainably and have a solid reputation for producing quality wines.

The Loire Valley vines enjoyed excellent heath throughout the season. 2017 was characterised by an earlier harvest, which took place two weeks earlier than average, under ideal weather conditions. Frost in April impacted some areas resulting in lower yields; however a long, warm summer allowed the grapes to ripen fully. The grapes retained good acidity levels which has resulted in balanced wines.

The vines for this cuvée have an average age of 35 years; the older vines have lower vigour and produce wines with more concentration, complexity and depth compared to young vines. The Domaine Lavigne vineyards are sustainably managed and the domain has been proactively involved in a weather tower project, which has endeavoured to help the entire Saumur appellation. The aim is to keep the treatments used in the vineyards to a minimum, due to accurate forecasting and prevention of damaging rains and fogs. Using minimal chemical treatments and allowing sustainable methods, such as growing grasses and plants between the vines to naturally control weeds; helps the conservation of the soil and soil water management. The vines are grown in clay and chalk soils.

The grapes were carefully harvested at optimum ripeness and were fully destemmed prior to vinification. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures and lasted for 12 to 15 days. The wine was made in an unoaked style in order to fully express the purity of fruit.

A silky Cabernet Franc showing rich aromas of raspberry, blackberry and hints of graphite through to a supple and generous palate with a refreshing dryness on the finish.