Château Coudray-Montpensier, Chinon

Country: France Region: Loire Valley

Varietal: Cabernet Franc

Vintage: 2018 Colour: Red Style: Dry

Producer: The impressive Château Coudray-Montpensier, located in Chinon, has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages (1090 AD). The castle was built during the 14th century and was owned by a succession of nobility. In 1429, during the Hundred Years’ War, Joan of Arc stayed in the castle’s tower. She was waiting for an audience with King Charles VII of France to organise an attack against the English to relieve the French troops at the siege of Orléans. After various owners during the 19th and 20th centuries, the property was eventually acquired by Dr Christian Feray in 2005, who undertook major restorations.

The property comprises 30 hectares of vines, situated on the left bank of the river Vienne. The grapes grow on varied soils in the Chinon appellation and thrive depending on the type of vintage. In dry and hot years, the vines are best suited to clay, limestone soils, and in the wetter and cooler years they grow better on sandy soils. The Cabernet Franc is sourced from 14 hectares of prime vineyard.

After a cold maceration of up to 10 days and alcoholic fermentation, the wine spends between 6 and 12 months in oak.

Tasting Note: With vibrant aromas of blackcurrant fruit and a hint of vanilla, this wine is refreshing with bright acidity, supple tannins and a persistent finish.