Sanzay Saumur-Champigny Vieilles Vignes 2020

Some wine writers will tell you that we’re living in the golden age of Loire Valley Cabernet Franc. Twenty years ago winemakers would struggle to ripen their grapes; twenty years from now, if warmer summers and earlier harvests continue, the wines may become unrecognizable. Rejoice, they say, in this window of perfect weather. The size of the window and speed at which it closes remain to be seen, but, as far as the present goes, we wholeheartedly agree.

The 2020 Saumur-Champigny Vieilles Vignes is even more impressive. With added depth and intensity from the old vines, this shows a bit of extra structure too – it’s more serious than their regular cuvée, but no less delicious. The nose is dark and floral, but with faint notes of underbrush and stones – a sauvage Cab Franc without any animale. Drink this over the next 4-5 years; we’ve yet to open a tired bottle.