2023 Clotilde Legrand Saumur-Champigny, Loire Valley, France

ABOUT THIS WINE

Made from 100% Cabernet Franc, this wine comes from vineyards in and around Varrains within the Saumur-Champigny appellation. The region's characteristic tuffeau limestone and clay-limestone soils provide excellent drainage while contributing the mineral freshness and fine structure associated with classic Saumur-Champigny.

Clotilde Legrand farms her vines organically, emphasizing soil health, biodiversity, and naturally balanced vines. The grapes are harvested by hand and carefully sorted before fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Gentle extraction preserves the aromatic purity and lively fruit of Cabernet Franc, while élevage is deliberately restrained so that the limestone terroir remains clearly expressed.

The 2023 vintage combines ripe, generous fruit with the freshness that makes Loire Cabernet Franc so compelling. It is approachable now, yet its acidity and tannic structure should allow it to gain further savory complexity in bottle. Serve it with roast chicken, duck, pork, grilled sausages, lentils, mushrooms, or the region's classic goat cheeses.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Clotilde Legrand is a respected independent grower based in Varrains, at the heart of Saumur-Champigny. She is part of the Legrand family, whose longstanding connection to the area has helped establish the domaine as an important source for traditional, terroir-focused Cabernet Franc.

Her philosophy centers on organic farming, careful manual vineyard work, and minimal intervention in the cellar. Rather than relying on heavy extraction or pronounced oak, Legrand seeks transparency, allowing fruit, limestone, and vintage character to shape the wines.