Bourgueil

In a recent tasting of Loire reds, this was the run away winner.  100% Cabernet Franc.  Purple in color, opaque and bright.  The nose  has black cherries, slight cedary notes and chalk.  Silky texture.  Medium to full bodied.  On the palate, the black cherry fruit comes thru with some underlying chalk.  Deep.  Light tannins.  Long finish.  Delicious.  This is nice on its own and would  work nicely with grilled meats or roasted veggies.  It may still improve a bit but should drink well for another eight to twelve years.  

Purple in color, ruby at the rim, opaque and bright.  The nose has cherries, tobacco and slight barnyard.  Great texture   Tannins are all integrated.  Complex and deep.  Just about at peak.  Layers of cherries and black cherries and also some tobacco.  Good finish.  Delicious.  This drinks well on its own but is better with food.  Lamb stew would be a nice choice.  Drink over the next five to seven years.  

This is a Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley.  2003 was an extremely hot vintage and also the vintage where Benoit came home to work the vineyards with his father Yannick.  This is fully mature and maybe a bit past for some bottles and depending how you like you wine.  Deep ruby in color.  The nose has black cherries, slight tobacco, dust and slight spice.  Medium bodied.  Tannins fully resolved.  On the palate, black cherries over a cigar box quality.  Good acidity.  Nice finish.  This should be consumed in the next three to five years.  It goes well with roast or casseroles.