Cabernet Franc in Saumur-Champigny 2009
Much as I like the notion of highlighting the brilliance and charms of Cabernet Franc yesterday (1st September), I do feel that the conception is flawed: Cabernet Franc, like pet dogs, should not be for just one day. Here@Jim's Loire many days in the year are enriched by Cabernet Franc.
1989 Vieilles Vignes Chinon Domaine de la Perrière (Jean & Christophe Baudry)
About 10 days ago we drank a bottle of the 1989 VV Chinon from Jean and Christophe Baudry's Domaine de la Perrière (Cravant-le-Coteaux). Pure Cabernet Franc, it had wonderful perfume that just filled the large glasses we were using and had a brilliant harmony and freshness. This was certainly one of the best bottles of Loire Cabernet Franc from the famed 1989 vintage that I have ever drunk. This bottle may be at its peak – certainly it was full of life and gave the impression that it would have lasted considerably more years if we hadn't pulled the cork and had great pleasure in sharing it with friends.
I doubt this VV cost more than the equivalent of £4 or £5 when we bought it. Certainly demonstrating how age-worthy well-made Chinon can be, especially bearing in mind that this wine comes from vines planted on the gravel, not normally considered to be as well suited to ageing as those cuvées from the limestone coteaux.
This week I have received an invitation to go to a special tasting of 60 years of Chinon from 1945-2005. It will be held in mid-September and I'm delighted that I will be able to go. Should be fascinating!
Christophe Baudry
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