The Loire region has often been overlooked when it comes to red wines. Perhaps this is because the region is at its northerly limit of commercially viable viticulture and so the grapes have to work harder to ripen. As such, the hallmark of these reds is relatively high acidity. In other words, these wines are the nonconformists. This makes them really rather interesting and so I wanted to share a particularly good one with you.

Chinon

This little known red can be found on the banks of the River Loire and hails from the town of the same name. it is made exclusively from the Cabernet Franc grape variety which is most famous for being a blending grape in the great wines fo Bordeaux. Whilst it is true that Cab Franc usually plays a supporting role to Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon when cultivated with care and expertise it can create medium bodied wines of great quality and importantly great value. This light and fruity yet deceptively complex red has a slightly green character nestled in among red summer berries and just a hint of spice. It can be served lightly chilled and goes beautifully with cured meats.

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