Domaine De La Chanteleuserie Bourgueil Cuvee Alouettes, Cabernet Franc, Loire, France 2022

Description

The name of this estate in the Loire Valley means "the place where the larks sing". The vineyards, situated just across the river from Chinon and all planted to Cabernet Franc, have been in the same family for seven generations. The Boucards (now Thierry and Christine) make some of the most age-worthy wines in the region, but the Cuvée Alouettes is meant for earlier consumption.

Cuvée Alouettes comes from an 8 hectare vineyard with low-yielding vines ranging from 45-60 years old, planted on sand and clay. The grapes are picked quickly and then kept cool through de-stemming, and temperature is further controlled during fermentation (in stainless steel) in order to preserve freshness and acidity, and to avoid the tannic bite found in some Bourgueil cab franc.

Grape : Cabernet Franc

Terroir : silica-clay soils. Area of ​​9 hectares. Average age of the vineyard: 30 years. Vinification: Vatting for 12 to 18 days with temperature control.

Ageing : In stainless steel vats for 8 to 12 months until bottling.

Tasting : Drink now and keep for up to 4 years.

 Service : White meats, roasts, savory pies and charcuterie.