Domaine de l'Enchantoir has 42 acres of vineyards in the heart of the Anjou-Saumur region of the Loire. The estate is managed by the Brunet family. The vineyards rest on ancient limestone, dating back to the late Cretaceous period. The gentle slope sits at approximately 490 feet in elevation, with about 15 or so inches of soil before the vines grow into the chalk below. ‘Saumur Puy de Notre Dame’ has a regional typicity that is recognized for it’s rich and complex Cabernet Franc that derive from this unique site.

This 100% Cabernet Franc wine is certified organic and sourced from 40 year old vines. The wine was fermented in concrete with natural yeasts and is unfined and unfiltered. Espresso, spice, richly built with earthy elements, nice core of limestone. I was particularly fond of the deep expression of Cabernet Franc from this region and very impressed with the efforts from this domaine.

Intensely opaque with a purple rim. This precocious wine has a wealth of ripe blue and black fruits. The layers and depth of fruit in this offering are endless. The wine greets you at the entry with blackberry compote, black cherry puree, leather, gravel and soft pencil shavings. There is a dusting of dark cocoa in the background. The edges are finely chiseled with tannins that are ripe and polished. Give this well-crafted Cabernet Franc a few years to appreciate it’s pure potential.

By W Peter Hoyne