2021 Dm Guiberteau Saumur Rouge, Loire Valley

100% Cabernet Franc. Guiberteau’s village rouge is sourced from three parcels of old-vine Cabernet Franc (planted from 1955 to 1957) on silty/sandy topsoils over limestone on the Brézé hill. Made entirely from destemmed grapes, this fruit-forward bottling fermented naturally in concrete before spending 12 months in large tronconique barrels. This reverses the logic in the white releases, where the Moulins is elevated above village level. Romain Guiberteau clearly thought the same, hence the pricing. The cool 2021 vintage has gifted a delightful example of this cuvée. Seductive aromatics of raspberry, nettle and earthy sage lead to a vibrant, tangy palate with lovely pulp and savoury mineral edge. The long, lingering finish suggests crushed berries, meat juices, violet, and woody herbs. If you like more fruit, go for Les Moulins. If you prefer more tertiary or savoury nuance, then this is your wine.