Terre de L'Elu L'Aiglerie (Organic)
Country: France Region: Loire
Varietal: 100% Cabernet Franc
Vintage: 2016 Colour: Red Style: Dry
Producer: Thomas & Charlotte Carsin
Description:
Terre de l’Élu (formerly Clos de l’Élu) was acquired by Charlotte and Thomas Carsin in January 2008. Before purchasing the property, Thomas spent his formative years working in Champagne, Burgundy, Provence and California, and Charlotte in the fields of communication and management. They are both deeply passionate about the life of this domaine which lies upon the finest terroirs of the Layon valley.
In 2019, Thomas and Charlotte decided to relinquish the word “Clos”, which is reserved only for appellation wines, due to the restrictions imposed under the appellation rules – “We prefer to give priority to our freedom and creativity rather than trying to make wines that do not resemble us.”
Situated at the edge of the Armorican Massif, the dark soils of “Anjou Noir” provide the perfect setting for Charlotte and Thomas to flex their creativity. Even though it was Chenin that originally attracted Thomas and Charlotte to Anjou, the red grape varieties (Cabernet Franc, Grolleau, Pineau d’Aunis) inspire them with “deep, rich vintages that are expressive and full of finesse.”
100% Cabernet Franc from the single-vineyard site, Aiglerie. The vines are 35 years old, on schist soils. Maceration-infusion in whole bunches for 3 to 5 weeks. Natural fermentation using native yeasts. The free run juice and pressed wine are blended together and then aged for 30 months in old barrels. No filtration.
The Aiglerie vineyard is direct south facing and encircles the Château de l’Aiglerie, which dominates the Layon Valley.
Thomas and Charlotte farm Terre de l’Elu organically and biodynamically – certified by Ecocert and Demeter.
Tasting Note:
Mint, bay leaf and aniseed on the nose, opening up to red fruits and herbs, with a savoury edge. Smooth and refreshing tannins.
Food Matches: Roast green vegetables (think capsicum, spinach etc), paprika spice, as well as tomatoes and tangy green olives.
