2020 Chateau d’Epiré ‘Clos de la Cerisaie’, Anjou Rouge, Loire Valley

Château d’Épiré is one of the oldest domaines in Savennières, represented now by the 5th generation. Their winery is an old church of remarkable architecture which dates back from the 12th century! It stands as an emblem of tradition and excellence, nestled in the heart of the enchanting Loire Valley. With a heritage dating back centuries, the estate represents the rich history and deep-rooted viticultural practices of the region. The vineyards are meticulously tended and blessed by the valley's unique microclimate, yields are low giving grapes of exceptional quality. Why do we like it? The appellation of Savennières is located north of the Loire River, southwest of Angers. It benefits from a unique microclimate, quite warm for the region, and schist soil. Most of the planting is made of Chenin Blanc and gives some of the most powerful and full-bodied example of the grape but Château d’Épiré has a little secret, it is one of the very last growers to produce Cabernet Franc in the Savennières appellation. Paul Bizard, who recently took the reins from his father, Luc, is as proud as he is protective of the domaine’s rare hectare of rouge. It’s a wine made without pretention, it’s joyful with pure raspberry and plum aromas, on the palate the delicate peppery, violet and herbal sensation will reveal themselves. Due to delicacy of the wine, we will have to pair it with a poultry dish.    Grape            Cabernet Franc  Country        France                                              Region          Saumur-Champingny Vintage         2020