Domaine Les Pins - Bourgueil Rouge Vieilles Vignes 2018

Domaine Les Pins was founded in the 1930s by Jules Esprit, Today, its fifth generation of family leadership under brothers Philippe and Christophe Pitault-Landry, the estate consists of 32 hectares, planted exclusively to Cabernet Franc in Bourgueil and St. Nicolas de Bourgueil. Both appellations sit on the northern bank of the Loire River, with Bourgueil being directly across the river from the other great Cabernet Franc appellation, Chinon. St. Nicolas de Bourgueil is smaller appellation carved out of the north-western part of Bourgueil. The vineyards of Bourgueil are planted on a tuffeau (a type of limestone), gravel and sand plateau along the banks of the Loire river. The vines of St. Nicolas are planted further inland on lighter, alluvial soils with more sand than gravel. Philippe and Christophe utilize modern techniques in both the vineyards and the cellar to produce outstanding wines of exceptional quality. They are very respectful of their soils and vineyard environment, and to that end, all vines are farmed sustainably.

In the glass, Les Pins' Vieilles Vignes Bourgueil shimmers a brilliant mid-purple color with flecks of garnet. The nose displays pristine fruits with seductive intensity; notes of purple flowers, ripe raspberry, sour cherry and a crushed stone minerality. On the palate, the wine is soft and luxurious, concentrated, yet impeccably balanced, with a long and subtle finish. Flavors of black cherries and raspberries dance across the tongue with a graphite mineral and spice note adding to the complex flavors and delectable mouthfeel. This is a treasure chest of Cabernet Franc — every time you go back to the glass you discover another delicate shading of flavor: kirsch, strawberry, rhubarb, leather, green tobacco, chili pepper... You can't beat this price for this quality Cabernet Franc in the Loire Valley; the wine is an sure-fire home run, a Grand Slam! And one of the best qualities of the Domaine les Pins Vieilles Vignes is its versatility on the table: enjoy with barbecue meats slathered in a vinegar-based sauce, spicy Mexican food laced with fresh herbs or try it with bulgogi (Korean grilled beef).