Clos Rougeard Saumur Champigny Le Bourg 2015 750ml
The acclaimed Domaine Clos Rougeard estate is nestled in the French Loire valley, producing both red and white wines from the Brézé terroir.
Violets, cardamum, cranberry, notes of blackberry; smooth, rich, silky, fluctuating, pulsating, tart, extremely long finish
Clos Rougeard is a renowned wine estate located in the Loire Valley, France, highly celebrated for its exceptional Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc wines. Here are some key points about Clos Rougeard:
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Location and Recognition: The estate is situated in the Loire Valley, specifically in the Saumur-Champigny appellation. Although the Loire Valley is mostly known for its white wines, Clos Rougeard has gained international acclaim for its red wines, particularly the Cabernet Francs.
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Wine Varieties and Vineyards: Clos Rougeard produces mainly Cabernet Franc red wines and a Chenin Blanc white wine. The red cuvée Le Bourg, for example, comes from a small 2.5-acre plot with old vines. They also produce a small amount of sweet Chenin Blanc called Coteaux de Saumur in select vintages.
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Limited Production and Exclusivity: The estate's wines are highly sought after due to their limited production of under 3,000 cases annually. The vineyards are organically farmed, and the grapes are carefully pruned to ensure quality over quantity.
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Aging Process: The wines of Clos Rougeard undergo a significant oak aging process, varying between 18 and 24 months. This aging contributes to the bold style of their wines, setting them apart from other reds in the region.
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Family Legacy and Ownership: The estate has a rich family history, with the Foucault brothers, Nady and Charly, taking control in 1969 and becoming the eighth generation to manage it. After Charly Foucault's passing, his son Antoine took over. However, in 2017, the estate was sold to the Bouygues brothers.