Sanzay Saumur-Champigny Vieilles Vignes 2021

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.

Sanzay’s old vine cuvée from 2021 is excellent — it’s also nicely ripened Cabernet Franc dominated by its maraschino-cherry fruit, but there’s a bit more body and a bit more length. It spends some time in older oak barrels, which deliver some integration with little oak influence on the flavors. Sanzay’s Saumur-Champigny Vieilles Vignes 2021 is another versatile wine that will pair up well with all sorts of dishes, and this one will be nice for quaffing as an aperitif as well.