Loire Valley
Spanning from the Central Vineyards in the east to Nantes in the west, passing through Torraine and Anjou-Samur, the Loire Valley is a vast and varied wine region shaped by the river's influence. The region's diverse terroir is characterized by a continental climate in the east and a maritime climate in the west.
Renowned for its exceptional dry white wines made from Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc, the Loire Valley offers a captivating selection with crisp acidity, expressive fruit flavours, and mineral notes. Notable white wine appellations in the Loire Valley include Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé, Vouvray, and Savennières. Leading producers of white wine in the region include Domaine Vacheron, Domaine Huet, and Domaine Didier Dagueneau.
In addition to its white wines, the Loire Valley produces charming red wines made from Cabernet Franc. Ranging from light and fruity to more complex and age-worthy, these red wines are known for their vibrant acidity, subtle tannins, and bright red fruit flavours. Key appellations for red wines in the Loire Valley include Chinon, Bourgueil, and Saumur-Champigny. Notable producers of red wine in the region include Domaine Bernard Baudry, Catherine & Pierre Breton, and Domaine Charles Joguet.
The Loire Valley also produces excellent sweet wines and sparkling wines. Sweet wines are made from Chenin Blanc grapes affected by botrytis, a fungus that concentrates the sugars in the grapes, resulting in luscious sweetness, honeyed flavors, and vibrant acidity. The most famous sweet wine appellations in the Loire Valley include Coteaux du Layon and Quarts de Chaume. Sparkling wines, known as Crémant de Loire, are made using the traditional method and offer excellent value for money with finesse, delicate bubbles, and refreshing character.
Loire Valley
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(6x75cl) 2015Vinous (93)
This was Charly Foucault’s last vintage. Fruity and floral on the nose with an edge of smoke. Big boned and intense, but with a smoothness to this wine, with lots of raspberry, cranberry, and cherry, silky tannins and a long cool finish.Inc. VAT£1,705.61 -
Vinous (94)
Released in November 2021, after its customary five year stay in the cellar, the 2016 Le Clos is a wine that makes you say 'God this is good' as soon as you put a drop in your mouth before you sink into it. While it is already starting to open up and could be approached by the impatient wine lover, this has the tannins that will leave you licking your lips and abundant acidity making your mouth water. In combination with the fine concentration of fruit and long length, there's no hurry to open. On the drawn out finish, cherry, tea leaf and mushroom flavors linger on and on.Inc. VAT£438.89 -
(3x75cl) 2016Vinous (94)
Released in November 2021, after its customary five year stay in the cellar, the 2016 Le Clos is a wine that makes you say 'God this is good' as soon as you put a drop in your mouth before you sink into it. While it is already starting to open up and could be approached by the impatient wine lover, this has the tannins that will leave you licking your lips and abundant acidity making your mouth water. In combination with the fine concentration of fruit and long length, there's no hurry to open. On the drawn out finish, cherry, tea leaf and mushroom flavors linger on and on.Inc. VAT£515.60 -
Jancis Robinson (17)
Elegant but restrained. Denser and with a bit more energy and drive than the 2018. Juicy, long and fresh. Lovely balance and oh, so pure. Fine, long and precise.Inc. VAT£1,626.26 -
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny 2018 is an exquisite Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley. This lauded vintage emanates from the renowned winegrowing estate, Clos Rougeard – an estate known for its meticulous organic and biodynamic farming. Hailing from the Saumur-Champigny appellation, this wine embodies the specific tastes and aromas of its terroir. The combination of diverse soils and the estate’s viticulture techniques brings forth the finesse and depth akin to the esteemed Clos Rougeard label.
The 2018 offering enthrals with an elegantly complex bouquet, harmonising ripe berries with savoury undertones. Its palate reveals rich dark fruit flavours enhanced by an undercurrent of minerality, resulting in a persistently satisfying finish. Maturation in oak barrels accentuates its full-bodied structure and highlights the varietal’s inherent characteristics. The excellence embodied by Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny 2018 is a reflection of the Foucault brothers’ commitment to producing wine of superlative authenticity and character.
Inc. VAT£933.86 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (93)
The 1995 Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg is fresh and effervescent on the nose with cranberry, cracked black pepper and light loamy aromas. Wonderful delineation. The palate is à point with finely sculpted tannins, a core of peppery black fruit and a sense of poise on the lengthy finish. It totally shades the Les Poyeux cuvée on this occasion. Excellent. Tasted at the Clos Rougeard retrospective at Noble Rot.Inc. VAT£4,929.71 -
Wine Advocate (92)
The Foucaults’ 2002 Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg displays a complex aromatic melange of machine, blackberry, smoked meat, resinous herbs, toasted nuts, sauteed mushrooms, flowers, and sweat. Sleek in texture, enormously rich and expansive in the mouth, yet retaining an invigorating core of acidity, it spreads salt and wet stone mineral traces, bitter black fruits and pungent herbs in the wake of its long, penetrating, juicy finish. I imagine this evolving into something like the glorious 1988 I was served on my recent visit. (For notes on the domaine’s whites, please consult the coverage of Anjou and Saumur elsewhere in this report. I did, incidentally, not have a chance to taste the Rougeard 2004s, nor any of their “Le Clos” bottling, which is assembled from several small parcels and lower-priced than their other offerings.)Inc. VAT£626.24 -
Imbibe a taste of history with the distinguished Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2004. Exquisitely crafted, this wine originates from Saumur-Champigny appellation, Loire Valley, in France’s finest vineyards. Guided by the strict principles of organic viticulture, the Foucault family, eighth-generation vignerons, crafted this masterpiece, resulting in a profound and impeccable expression of Cabernet Franc.
The wine matured for 24-30 months in new oak barrels, conveying structured tannins, vibrant acidity, and an intriguing blend of red currant, lead pencil, and graphite aromas. Dark ruby in colour and full-bodied, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2004 combines subtlety and power, evoking an unparalleled tasting experience. This is no ordinary wine, but rather a legend in the world of French winemaking, strongly representing the individuality and charm of the Saumur-Champigny terroir.
Every glass of the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2004 encapsulates a distinct, rich narrative that continues to evolve, creating a multifaceted, memorable experience for the discerning connoisseur.
Inc. VAT£564.53 -
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2006 embodies the epitome of French viticulture in the heart of the Loire Valley. Renowned for their meticulous organic farming approach and traditional winemaking techniques, the Foucault brothers have crafted a wine of supreme elegance. The vineyard only utilises biodynamic techniques, highlighting their commitment to natural wine production.
With the grapes being hand-picked, the Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2006 undergoes a lengthy maturation process in oak barrels, exuding depth and complexity. This intricate process yields a wine offering delicate blackcurrant notes and earthy undertones, with a refined structure and a finish that lingers.
Its exceptional character has firmly positioned the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2006 as one of the most influential Cabernet Francs globally. A limited grand cru production, it represents an unparalleled expression of the Loire Valley, showcasing the perfection of its terroir.
Inc. VAT£1,792.49 -
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2006 embodies the epitome of French viticulture in the heart of the Loire Valley. Renowned for their meticulous organic farming approach and traditional winemaking techniques, the Foucault brothers have crafted a wine of supreme elegance. The vineyard only utilises biodynamic techniques, highlighting their commitment to natural wine production.
With the grapes being hand-picked, the Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2006 undergoes a lengthy maturation process in oak barrels, exuding depth and complexity. This intricate process yields a wine offering delicate blackcurrant notes and earthy undertones, with a refined structure and a finish that lingers.
Its exceptional character has firmly positioned the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2006 as one of the most influential Cabernet Francs globally. A limited grand cru production, it represents an unparalleled expression of the Loire Valley, showcasing the perfection of its terroir.
Inc. VAT£1,084.49 -
From the distinguished cellars of Clos Rougeard, the Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2008 2008 is a wine par excellence. This legendary Loire Valley producer, hailing from the illustrious Saumur-Champigny region, meticulously vinifies their authentic Cabernet Franc using traditional methods. Swathed in the earthy goodness of the region's distinctive limestone-clay terroir, this breathtaking 2008 vintage marries remarkable complexity with grace and harmony.
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2008 comes from a small plot of 50-year-old vines, carefully hand-harvested and fermented with indigenous yeasts. Matured in new oak for up to 24 months, the result is a mesmerising spectacle of subtle red fruit, underpinned by thrilling depths of incense, mushroom, and forest floor.
Commanding unprecedented global recognition and respect, the Foucault brothers' uncompromising passion for excellence permeates through every bottle of Clos Rougeard. Their Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2008 is a veritable jewel, eagerly sought by discerning oenophiles worldwide.
Inc. VAT£451.04 -
From the distinguished cellars of Clos Rougeard, the Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2008 2008 is a wine par excellence. This legendary Loire Valley producer, hailing from the illustrious Saumur-Champigny region, meticulously vinifies their authentic Cabernet Franc using traditional methods. Swathed in the earthy goodness of the region's distinctive limestone-clay terroir, this breathtaking 2008 vintage marries remarkable complexity with grace and harmony.
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2008 comes from a small plot of 50-year-old vines, carefully hand-harvested and fermented with indigenous yeasts. Matured in new oak for up to 24 months, the result is a mesmerising spectacle of subtle red fruit, underpinned by thrilling depths of incense, mushroom, and forest floor.
Commanding unprecedented global recognition and respect, the Foucault brothers' uncompromising passion for excellence permeates through every bottle of Clos Rougeard. Their Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2008 is a veritable jewel, eagerly sought by discerning oenophiles worldwide.
Inc. VAT£1,867.78 -
Vinous (93)
Dark ruby with a blackish core. Vibrant nose offers aromas of blackberry, licorice and bitter chocolate lifted by a floral note. Rich, velvety and plush, with mineral pungency and refreshing acidity giving shape to the broad, sweet berry fruit on the palate. With its lush tannins and outstanding length, this wonderfully dense, concentrated cabernet franc has the breed of a fine Saint-Emilion.Inc. VAT£1,048.49 -
Discover the exceptional Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012, a stunning expression of Loire Valley Cabernet Franc. This renowned wine hails from the prestigious Clos Rougeard winery in the Saumur-Champigny AOC, a region famed for its optimal climatic conditions that yield well-balanced, fruity wines. The French wine estate has upheld a family legacy of superb winemaking since 1664, emphasised by meticulous biodynamic practices.
The exquisite Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 undergoes traditional vinification in oak barrels, matured in cellars dug in the tuffeau limestone for up to two years. The result is a harmonious blend of complexity and elegance, boasting a pure, velvety mouthfeel with luscious ripe red fruit and subtle spice notes, underpinned by a firm structure and silky tannins.
Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 is the epitome of French sophistication and tradition, appealing to discerning wine enthusiasts seeking the true taste of the Loire Valley.
Inc. VAT£1,868.09 -
Exclusively from the renowned Loire Valley, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 is a revered expression of French winemaking. Produced by the eminent Foucault brothers, famed for their impeccable biodynamic practices, this fine Cabernet Franc stands as a testament to their meticulous craftsmanship. The result of hand-picked grapes aged in old oak barrels, revealing an elegant, full-bodied wine. Cherished complexity accentuates notes of ripe plums, blackcurrants, and a hint of earthiness, harmonised with balanced acidity and an exceptional finish. The timeless nature of this vintage, combined with the incredible rarity of Foucault's production, solidifies Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 as a treasure amongst collectors. Garnering the consistent admiration of critics, with its impeccable structure and aging potential, it stands as one of the most prestigious offerings from the distinguished appellation of Saumur-Champigny. A drinking experience to be savoured, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 epitomises the transformative essence of truly fine wine.
Inc. VAT£2,779.46 -
(6x75cl) 2013Immerse in the rich character of the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2013. This highly coveted Cabernet Franc is meticulously aged in new oak barrels for approximately two years. The Foucault brothers, the masterminds behind this magnificent vineyard, cultivate a mere 10 hectares of land, ensuring premium quality and sustainable practices.
Settled in the Loire Valley, France, Clos Rougeard's terroir is filled with calcareous tuff stone, enriching the wine with an unparalleled mineral complexity. The Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2013 is distinguishable by its silky tannins and harmonious balance of fruit and subtle wood notes. With a deep crimson colour, this vintage exudes an inviting nose of dark fruit and spice, promising a sumptuous sip.
Every step from hand-harvesting to bottling is performed with a careful reverence that ensures the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2013 will stand as a shining beacon of French winemaking expertise. Savour the refined beauty of this meticulously crafted fine wine.
Inc. VAT£2,650.84 -
Vinous (96)
The 2016 Le Bourg is a typically fragrant, heady and savory expression with smoky bacon characters meeting the red fruit. The clay portion of the clay-limestone soils in the vineyard tends to give a roundness to Le Bourg. There's also an innate sense of power within its mellow frame. There's a generosity here but it never becomes opulent nor heavy - this is Saumur-Champigny, after all, and it specialises in lightness. The tannins provide a relaxed, powdery veil for the mouth which suggests you could approach it now but if you're not on death's door and can wait, this has the componentry to go the long haul.Inc. VAT£561.44 -
Vinous (96)
The 2016 Le Bourg is a typically fragrant, heady and savory expression with smoky bacon characters meeting the red fruit. The clay portion of the clay-limestone soils in the vineyard tends to give a roundness to Le Bourg. There's also an innate sense of power within its mellow frame. There's a generosity here but it never becomes opulent nor heavy - this is Saumur-Champigny, after all, and it specialises in lightness. The tannins provide a relaxed, powdery veil for the mouth which suggests you could approach it now but if you're not on death's door and can wait, this has the componentry to go the long haul.Inc. VAT£1,677.86 -
Vinous (97)
The 2017 Le Bourg exemplifies the site's characteristic power and structure. This is not a wine that you should buy to drink now. This Cabernet Franc is almost beast-like compared with Les Poyeux, which is relatively accessible and graceful. It has rounded shoulders and finely woven yet structured tannins, which could be attributed to the clay topsoil of the Le Bourg site. It's a heady expression that displays the smoky bacon notes that can be found when it's a baby wine in barrel. It also offers mocha notes, and a heady perfume that lingers in the air as if you're in an Indian garden, followed with bergamot and tea leaf. This is a wine that moves with power and direction. Due for release - on allocation - to those lucky enough to be on the buying list for Clos Rougeard.Inc. VAT£377.99 -
(6x75cl) 2017Vinous (97)
The 2017 Le Bourg exemplifies the site's characteristic power and structure. This is not a wine that you should buy to drink now. This Cabernet Franc is almost beast-like compared with Les Poyeux, which is relatively accessible and graceful. It has rounded shoulders and finely woven yet structured tannins, which could be attributed to the clay topsoil of the Le Bourg site. It's a heady expression that displays the smoky bacon notes that can be found when it's a baby wine in barrel. It also offers mocha notes, and a heady perfume that lingers in the air as if you're in an Indian garden, followed with bergamot and tea leaf. This is a wine that moves with power and direction. Due for release - on allocation - to those lucky enough to be on the buying list for Clos Rougeard.Inc. VAT£3,280.69 -
(6x75cl) 2018Distinguished among connoisseurs, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2018 stands as a hallmark of French winemaking subtlety and precision. Originating from the renowned Loire Valley, this wine is lovingly cultivated by the Foucault family, whose vineyards are famed for their adherence to natural winemaking practices and non-interventionist philosophy.
Noted for its excellent capacity to age, every bottle of Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2018 is meticulously crafted, undergoing traditional vinification in oak, before maturation in demi-muid barrels for up to two years. This rigorous process contributes to the wine's complex structure – a compelling fusion of dense fruit, delicate tannins, and a vibrant acidity.
With an aroma revealing essences of black fruits, leather and underwood, and a palate burgeoning with cassis and liquorice, it offers a rich, full-bodied experience. Discerning winelovers will doubtlessly appreciate the sensuous indulgence offered by the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2018.
Inc. VAT£2,287.01 -
Reminiscent of the grandeur of the Loire Valley, the superlative Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 1996 emerges as an exemplar of Cabernet Franc perfection. Crafted meticulously by the Focault brothers, striking heirs to eight generations of Loire viticulture, this vintage manifests the family's devotion to biodynamic innocence with profound depth and structure. Blossoming in calcareous clay and Turonian limestone slopes of Champigny, the grapes unfold their nuance, displaying a rich spectrum of flavours―breathtaking raspberries, prunes, graphite, and subtle hints of truffle. Maturation in new-barrel oak over an unhurried two years bestows upon Les Poyeux an elegant complexity underpinned by an arresting mineral line. It's a tableau of harmonious contrasts, presented by a meticulously balanced tannin-acid structure. The distinguished Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 1996, recognised for its longevity, matures gracefully, reserving its full reveal for the patient aficionado. Thus ensuring every illustrious sip offers a timeless journey into its magisterial cradle.
Inc. VAT£1,109.87 -
Reminiscent of the grandeur of the Loire Valley, the superlative Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 1996 emerges as an exemplar of Cabernet Franc perfection. Crafted meticulously by the Focault brothers, striking heirs to eight generations of Loire viticulture, this vintage manifests the family's devotion to biodynamic innocence with profound depth and structure. Blossoming in calcareous clay and Turonian limestone slopes of Champigny, the grapes unfold their nuance, displaying a rich spectrum of flavours―breathtaking raspberries, prunes, graphite, and subtle hints of truffle. Maturation in new-barrel oak over an unhurried two years bestows upon Les Poyeux an elegant complexity underpinned by an arresting mineral line. It's a tableau of harmonious contrasts, presented by a meticulously balanced tannin-acid structure. The distinguished Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 1996, recognised for its longevity, matures gracefully, reserving its full reveal for the patient aficionado. Thus ensuring every illustrious sip offers a timeless journey into its magisterial cradle.
Inc. VAT£992.27 -
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 2002 is a distinguished vintage that mirrors the fine traditional offering of the Loire Valley. Hailing from Clos Rougeard, one of France's best-kept viticultural secrets, Les Poyeux 2002 displays singular notes inherent to Cabernet Franc grapes.
This radiant red wine bears the mark of precise craftsmanship. The Foucault brothers, whom Decanter magazine deemed as 'the greatest winemakers in the world', oversee the organic cultivation, hand-harvesting, and indigenous yeasts fermentation, done in oak barrels. The embodiment of meticulous viniculture, its 12-month maturation in old French oak barrels notably omits sulphur dioxide.
A sip of Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 2002 takes one on a pleasant journey of balanced black fruit flavours and refined tannins, leading to a lengthy finish. As an emblem of 'Pure Réalité', its luxurious character fits seamlessly with gastronomic encounters.
Inc. VAT£445.73 -
From the celebrated Clos Rougeard vineyard, the Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 2006 is a luxury personified in a bottle. This exquisitely crafted red wine, hailing from France's illustrious Loire Valley, is a testament to Clos Rougeard's unparalleled dedication to excellence. This vintage is a 100% Cabernet Franc, a variety unique to the region. The wine is meticulously fermented in oak barrels for 18-24 months, giving it layered complexity and depth. The resultant pour offers a truly immersive tasting experience, enveloping the senses with mature, fruity notes, sultry undercurrents of spice, and a pleasing minerality. Reflecting its distinguished terroir, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 2006 exhibits a beautiful harmony of strength and elegance, culminating in a strikingly prolonged finish. This fine wine is a crowning jewel in the vast offerings of Clos Rougeard, celebrated for their unwavering commitment to traditional, biodynamic wine making practices. A bottle of Les Poyeux 2006 is a compelling addition to any discerning wine collection.
Inc. VAT£1,394.27 -
(12x75cl) 2008Vinous (92)
Bright ruby with a hint of garnet at the rim. Fascinating aromas of plum, cherry and wild spices. Suave, discreetly sweet and savory, with enticingly pliant flavors of red fruits, game and sage. Finishes lush and silky, with very smooth tannins and lingering notes of redcurrant and spicecake. Rather Burgundian in character, this cabernet franc is built to age. That said, it is the only cabernet franc from Clos Rougeard that I tasted for this article that is approaching the stage where I would open a bottle.Inc. VAT£8,336.47 -
(6x75cl) 2011Vinous (92+)
Deep ruby. Lovely lift to the gamey aromas of blackberry, violet and wild flowers. Discreetly sweet, layered and seamless, showing perfectly integrated acidity and a chalky quality to the vibrant tannins. Juicy, vinous, intense and delicately suave, this distinguished cabernet franc finishes with subdued cassis fruit, subtle spices and superb length, reminding Nady of the 1993.Inc. VAT£1,685.06 -
Vinous (95)
There's a gorgeous nectarine-like character that runs through Les Poyeux when young and the 2016 is no different. It's silky and seductive in a non-opulent way. Finesse is a word that crops up repeatedly when I tasted this wine: finesse of fragrance - this is delightfully perfumed, pure and precise; finesse of tannins with their fine chalky texture. It is long, scented and charming, thus it could be approached now if you wished but it has a medium to long life ahead.Inc. VAT£1,772.66 -
(3x75cl) 2016Vinous (95)
There's a gorgeous nectarine-like character that runs through Les Poyeux when young and the 2016 is no different. It's silky and seductive in a non-opulent way. Finesse is a word that crops up repeatedly when I tasted this wine: finesse of fragrance - this is delightfully perfumed, pure and precise; finesse of tannins with their fine chalky texture. It is long, scented and charming, thus it could be approached now if you wished but it has a medium to long life ahead.Inc. VAT£772.92 -
Vinous (95)
There's a gorgeous nectarine-like character that runs through Les Poyeux when young and the 2016 is no different. It's silky and seductive in a non-opulent way. Finesse is a word that crops up repeatedly when I tasted this wine: finesse of fragrance - this is delightfully perfumed, pure and precise; finesse of tannins with their fine chalky texture. It is long, scented and charming, thus it could be approached now if you wished but it has a medium to long life ahead.Inc. VAT£1,517.06
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(6x75cl) 2015
Vinous (93)
This was Charly Foucault’s last vintage. Fruity and floral on the nose with an edge of smoke. Big boned and intense, but with a smoothness to this wine, with lots of raspberry, cranberry, and cherry, silky tannins and a long cool finish.In Bond£1,404.12 -
Vinous (94)
Released in November 2021, after its customary five year stay in the cellar, the 2016 Le Clos is a wine that makes you say 'God this is good' as soon as you put a drop in your mouth before you sink into it. While it is already starting to open up and could be approached by the impatient wine lover, this has the tannins that will leave you licking your lips and abundant acidity making your mouth water. In combination with the fine concentration of fruit and long length, there's no hurry to open. On the drawn out finish, cherry, tea leaf and mushroom flavors linger on and on.In Bond£360.00 -
(3x75cl) 2016
Vinous (94)
Released in November 2021, after its customary five year stay in the cellar, the 2016 Le Clos is a wine that makes you say 'God this is good' as soon as you put a drop in your mouth before you sink into it. While it is already starting to open up and could be approached by the impatient wine lover, this has the tannins that will leave you licking your lips and abundant acidity making your mouth water. In combination with the fine concentration of fruit and long length, there's no hurry to open. On the drawn out finish, cherry, tea leaf and mushroom flavors linger on and on.In Bond£421.65 -
Jancis Robinson (17)
Elegant but restrained. Denser and with a bit more energy and drive than the 2018. Juicy, long and fresh. Lovely balance and oh, so pure. Fine, long and precise.In Bond£1,338.00 -
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny 2018 is an exquisite Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley. This lauded vintage emanates from the renowned winegrowing estate, Clos Rougeard – an estate known for its meticulous organic and biodynamic farming. Hailing from the Saumur-Champigny appellation, this wine embodies the specific tastes and aromas of its terroir. The combination of diverse soils and the estate’s viticulture techniques brings forth the finesse and depth akin to the esteemed Clos Rougeard label.
The 2018 offering enthrals with an elegantly complex bouquet, harmonising ripe berries with savoury undertones. Its palate reveals rich dark fruit flavours enhanced by an undercurrent of minerality, resulting in a persistently satisfying finish. Maturation in oak barrels accentuates its full-bodied structure and highlights the varietal’s inherent characteristics. The excellence embodied by Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny 2018 is a reflection of the Foucault brothers’ commitment to producing wine of superlative authenticity and character.
In Bond£761.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (93)
The 1995 Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg is fresh and effervescent on the nose with cranberry, cracked black pepper and light loamy aromas. Wonderful delineation. The palate is à point with finely sculpted tannins, a core of peppery black fruit and a sense of poise on the lengthy finish. It totally shades the Les Poyeux cuvée on this occasion. Excellent. Tasted at the Clos Rougeard retrospective at Noble Rot.In Bond£4,088.00 -
Wine Advocate (92)
The Foucaults’ 2002 Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg displays a complex aromatic melange of machine, blackberry, smoked meat, resinous herbs, toasted nuts, sauteed mushrooms, flowers, and sweat. Sleek in texture, enormously rich and expansive in the mouth, yet retaining an invigorating core of acidity, it spreads salt and wet stone mineral traces, bitter black fruits and pungent herbs in the wake of its long, penetrating, juicy finish. I imagine this evolving into something like the glorious 1988 I was served on my recent visit. (For notes on the domaine’s whites, please consult the coverage of Anjou and Saumur elsewhere in this report. I did, incidentally, not have a chance to taste the Rougeard 2004s, nor any of their “Le Clos” bottling, which is assembled from several small parcels and lower-priced than their other offerings.)In Bond£519.00 -
Imbibe a taste of history with the distinguished Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2004. Exquisitely crafted, this wine originates from Saumur-Champigny appellation, Loire Valley, in France’s finest vineyards. Guided by the strict principles of organic viticulture, the Foucault family, eighth-generation vignerons, crafted this masterpiece, resulting in a profound and impeccable expression of Cabernet Franc.
The wine matured for 24-30 months in new oak barrels, conveying structured tannins, vibrant acidity, and an intriguing blend of red currant, lead pencil, and graphite aromas. Dark ruby in colour and full-bodied, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2004 combines subtlety and power, evoking an unparalleled tasting experience. This is no ordinary wine, but rather a legend in the world of French winemaking, strongly representing the individuality and charm of the Saumur-Champigny terroir.
Every glass of the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2004 encapsulates a distinct, rich narrative that continues to evolve, creating a multifaceted, memorable experience for the discerning connoisseur.
In Bond£467.00 -
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2006 embodies the epitome of French viticulture in the heart of the Loire Valley. Renowned for their meticulous organic farming approach and traditional winemaking techniques, the Foucault brothers have crafted a wine of supreme elegance. The vineyard only utilises biodynamic techniques, highlighting their commitment to natural wine production.
With the grapes being hand-picked, the Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2006 undergoes a lengthy maturation process in oak barrels, exuding depth and complexity. This intricate process yields a wine offering delicate blackcurrant notes and earthy undertones, with a refined structure and a finish that lingers.
Its exceptional character has firmly positioned the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2006 as one of the most influential Cabernet Francs globally. A limited grand cru production, it represents an unparalleled expression of the Loire Valley, showcasing the perfection of its terroir.
In Bond£1,488.00 -
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2006 embodies the epitome of French viticulture in the heart of the Loire Valley. Renowned for their meticulous organic farming approach and traditional winemaking techniques, the Foucault brothers have crafted a wine of supreme elegance. The vineyard only utilises biodynamic techniques, highlighting their commitment to natural wine production.
With the grapes being hand-picked, the Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2006 undergoes a lengthy maturation process in oak barrels, exuding depth and complexity. This intricate process yields a wine offering delicate blackcurrant notes and earthy undertones, with a refined structure and a finish that lingers.
Its exceptional character has firmly positioned the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2006 as one of the most influential Cabernet Francs globally. A limited grand cru production, it represents an unparalleled expression of the Loire Valley, showcasing the perfection of its terroir.
In Bond£898.00 -
From the distinguished cellars of Clos Rougeard, the Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2008 2008 is a wine par excellence. This legendary Loire Valley producer, hailing from the illustrious Saumur-Champigny region, meticulously vinifies their authentic Cabernet Franc using traditional methods. Swathed in the earthy goodness of the region's distinctive limestone-clay terroir, this breathtaking 2008 vintage marries remarkable complexity with grace and harmony.
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2008 comes from a small plot of 50-year-old vines, carefully hand-harvested and fermented with indigenous yeasts. Matured in new oak for up to 24 months, the result is a mesmerising spectacle of subtle red fruit, underpinned by thrilling depths of incense, mushroom, and forest floor.
Commanding unprecedented global recognition and respect, the Foucault brothers' uncompromising passion for excellence permeates through every bottle of Clos Rougeard. Their Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2008 is a veritable jewel, eagerly sought by discerning oenophiles worldwide.
In Bond£373.00 -
From the distinguished cellars of Clos Rougeard, the Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2008 2008 is a wine par excellence. This legendary Loire Valley producer, hailing from the illustrious Saumur-Champigny region, meticulously vinifies their authentic Cabernet Franc using traditional methods. Swathed in the earthy goodness of the region's distinctive limestone-clay terroir, this breathtaking 2008 vintage marries remarkable complexity with grace and harmony.
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2008 comes from a small plot of 50-year-old vines, carefully hand-harvested and fermented with indigenous yeasts. Matured in new oak for up to 24 months, the result is a mesmerising spectacle of subtle red fruit, underpinned by thrilling depths of incense, mushroom, and forest floor.
Commanding unprecedented global recognition and respect, the Foucault brothers' uncompromising passion for excellence permeates through every bottle of Clos Rougeard. Their Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2008 is a veritable jewel, eagerly sought by discerning oenophiles worldwide.
In Bond£1,545.00 -
Vinous (93)
Dark ruby with a blackish core. Vibrant nose offers aromas of blackberry, licorice and bitter chocolate lifted by a floral note. Rich, velvety and plush, with mineral pungency and refreshing acidity giving shape to the broad, sweet berry fruit on the palate. With its lush tannins and outstanding length, this wonderfully dense, concentrated cabernet franc has the breed of a fine Saint-Emilion.In Bond£868.00 -
Discover the exceptional Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012, a stunning expression of Loire Valley Cabernet Franc. This renowned wine hails from the prestigious Clos Rougeard winery in the Saumur-Champigny AOC, a region famed for its optimal climatic conditions that yield well-balanced, fruity wines. The French wine estate has upheld a family legacy of superb winemaking since 1664, emphasised by meticulous biodynamic practices.
The exquisite Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 undergoes traditional vinification in oak barrels, matured in cellars dug in the tuffeau limestone for up to two years. The result is a harmonious blend of complexity and elegance, boasting a pure, velvety mouthfeel with luscious ripe red fruit and subtle spice notes, underpinned by a firm structure and silky tannins.
Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 is the epitome of French sophistication and tradition, appealing to discerning wine enthusiasts seeking the true taste of the Loire Valley.
In Bond£1,551.00 -
Exclusively from the renowned Loire Valley, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 is a revered expression of French winemaking. Produced by the eminent Foucault brothers, famed for their impeccable biodynamic practices, this fine Cabernet Franc stands as a testament to their meticulous craftsmanship. The result of hand-picked grapes aged in old oak barrels, revealing an elegant, full-bodied wine. Cherished complexity accentuates notes of ripe plums, blackcurrants, and a hint of earthiness, harmonised with balanced acidity and an exceptional finish. The timeless nature of this vintage, combined with the incredible rarity of Foucault's production, solidifies Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 as a treasure amongst collectors. Garnering the consistent admiration of critics, with its impeccable structure and aging potential, it stands as one of the most prestigious offerings from the distinguished appellation of Saumur-Champigny. A drinking experience to be savoured, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 epitomises the transformative essence of truly fine wine.
In Bond£2,299.00 -
(6x75cl) 2013
Immerse in the rich character of the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2013. This highly coveted Cabernet Franc is meticulously aged in new oak barrels for approximately two years. The Foucault brothers, the masterminds behind this magnificent vineyard, cultivate a mere 10 hectares of land, ensuring premium quality and sustainable practices.
Settled in the Loire Valley, France, Clos Rougeard's terroir is filled with calcareous tuff stone, enriching the wine with an unparalleled mineral complexity. The Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2013 is distinguishable by its silky tannins and harmonious balance of fruit and subtle wood notes. With a deep crimson colour, this vintage exudes an inviting nose of dark fruit and spice, promising a sumptuous sip.
Every step from hand-harvesting to bottling is performed with a careful reverence that ensures the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2013 will stand as a shining beacon of French winemaking expertise. Savour the refined beauty of this meticulously crafted fine wine.
In Bond£2,193.00 -
Vinous (96)
The 2016 Le Bourg is a typically fragrant, heady and savory expression with smoky bacon characters meeting the red fruit. The clay portion of the clay-limestone soils in the vineyard tends to give a roundness to Le Bourg. There's also an innate sense of power within its mellow frame. There's a generosity here but it never becomes opulent nor heavy - this is Saumur-Champigny, after all, and it specialises in lightness. The tannins provide a relaxed, powdery veil for the mouth which suggests you could approach it now but if you're not on death's door and can wait, this has the componentry to go the long haul.In Bond£465.00 -
Vinous (96)
The 2016 Le Bourg is a typically fragrant, heady and savory expression with smoky bacon characters meeting the red fruit. The clay portion of the clay-limestone soils in the vineyard tends to give a roundness to Le Bourg. There's also an innate sense of power within its mellow frame. There's a generosity here but it never becomes opulent nor heavy - this is Saumur-Champigny, after all, and it specialises in lightness. The tannins provide a relaxed, powdery veil for the mouth which suggests you could approach it now but if you're not on death's door and can wait, this has the componentry to go the long haul.In Bond£1,381.00 -
Vinous (97)
The 2017 Le Bourg exemplifies the site's characteristic power and structure. This is not a wine that you should buy to drink now. This Cabernet Franc is almost beast-like compared with Les Poyeux, which is relatively accessible and graceful. It has rounded shoulders and finely woven yet structured tannins, which could be attributed to the clay topsoil of the Le Bourg site. It's a heady expression that displays the smoky bacon notes that can be found when it's a baby wine in barrel. It also offers mocha notes, and a heady perfume that lingers in the air as if you're in an Indian garden, followed with bergamot and tea leaf. This is a wine that moves with power and direction. Due for release - on allocation - to those lucky enough to be on the buying list for Clos Rougeard.In Bond£312.00 -
(6x75cl) 2017
Vinous (97)
The 2017 Le Bourg exemplifies the site's characteristic power and structure. This is not a wine that you should buy to drink now. This Cabernet Franc is almost beast-like compared with Les Poyeux, which is relatively accessible and graceful. It has rounded shoulders and finely woven yet structured tannins, which could be attributed to the clay topsoil of the Le Bourg site. It's a heady expression that displays the smoky bacon notes that can be found when it's a baby wine in barrel. It also offers mocha notes, and a heady perfume that lingers in the air as if you're in an Indian garden, followed with bergamot and tea leaf. This is a wine that moves with power and direction. Due for release - on allocation - to those lucky enough to be on the buying list for Clos Rougeard.In Bond£2,716.00 -
(6x75cl) 2018
Distinguished among connoisseurs, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2018 stands as a hallmark of French winemaking subtlety and precision. Originating from the renowned Loire Valley, this wine is lovingly cultivated by the Foucault family, whose vineyards are famed for their adherence to natural winemaking practices and non-interventionist philosophy.
Noted for its excellent capacity to age, every bottle of Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2018 is meticulously crafted, undergoing traditional vinification in oak, before maturation in demi-muid barrels for up to two years. This rigorous process contributes to the wine's complex structure – a compelling fusion of dense fruit, delicate tannins, and a vibrant acidity.
With an aroma revealing essences of black fruits, leather and underwood, and a palate burgeoning with cassis and liquorice, it offers a rich, full-bodied experience. Discerning winelovers will doubtlessly appreciate the sensuous indulgence offered by the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2018.
In Bond£1,886.60 -
Reminiscent of the grandeur of the Loire Valley, the superlative Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 1996 emerges as an exemplar of Cabernet Franc perfection. Crafted meticulously by the Focault brothers, striking heirs to eight generations of Loire viticulture, this vintage manifests the family's devotion to biodynamic innocence with profound depth and structure. Blossoming in calcareous clay and Turonian limestone slopes of Champigny, the grapes unfold their nuance, displaying a rich spectrum of flavours―breathtaking raspberries, prunes, graphite, and subtle hints of truffle. Maturation in new-barrel oak over an unhurried two years bestows upon Les Poyeux an elegant complexity underpinned by an arresting mineral line. It's a tableau of harmonious contrasts, presented by a meticulously balanced tannin-acid structure. The distinguished Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 1996, recognised for its longevity, matures gracefully, reserving its full reveal for the patient aficionado. Thus ensuring every illustrious sip offers a timeless journey into its magisterial cradle.
In Bond£918.00 -
Reminiscent of the grandeur of the Loire Valley, the superlative Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 1996 emerges as an exemplar of Cabernet Franc perfection. Crafted meticulously by the Focault brothers, striking heirs to eight generations of Loire viticulture, this vintage manifests the family's devotion to biodynamic innocence with profound depth and structure. Blossoming in calcareous clay and Turonian limestone slopes of Champigny, the grapes unfold their nuance, displaying a rich spectrum of flavours―breathtaking raspberries, prunes, graphite, and subtle hints of truffle. Maturation in new-barrel oak over an unhurried two years bestows upon Les Poyeux an elegant complexity underpinned by an arresting mineral line. It's a tableau of harmonious contrasts, presented by a meticulously balanced tannin-acid structure. The distinguished Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 1996, recognised for its longevity, matures gracefully, reserving its full reveal for the patient aficionado. Thus ensuring every illustrious sip offers a timeless journey into its magisterial cradle.
In Bond£820.00 -
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 2002 is a distinguished vintage that mirrors the fine traditional offering of the Loire Valley. Hailing from Clos Rougeard, one of France's best-kept viticultural secrets, Les Poyeux 2002 displays singular notes inherent to Cabernet Franc grapes.
This radiant red wine bears the mark of precise craftsmanship. The Foucault brothers, whom Decanter magazine deemed as 'the greatest winemakers in the world', oversee the organic cultivation, hand-harvesting, and indigenous yeasts fermentation, done in oak barrels. The embodiment of meticulous viniculture, its 12-month maturation in old French oak barrels notably omits sulphur dioxide.
A sip of Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 2002 takes one on a pleasant journey of balanced black fruit flavours and refined tannins, leading to a lengthy finish. As an emblem of 'Pure Réalité', its luxurious character fits seamlessly with gastronomic encounters.
In Bond£368.00 -
From the celebrated Clos Rougeard vineyard, the Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 2006 is a luxury personified in a bottle. This exquisitely crafted red wine, hailing from France's illustrious Loire Valley, is a testament to Clos Rougeard's unparalleled dedication to excellence. This vintage is a 100% Cabernet Franc, a variety unique to the region. The wine is meticulously fermented in oak barrels for 18-24 months, giving it layered complexity and depth. The resultant pour offers a truly immersive tasting experience, enveloping the senses with mature, fruity notes, sultry undercurrents of spice, and a pleasing minerality. Reflecting its distinguished terroir, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 2006 exhibits a beautiful harmony of strength and elegance, culminating in a strikingly prolonged finish. This fine wine is a crowning jewel in the vast offerings of Clos Rougeard, celebrated for their unwavering commitment to traditional, biodynamic wine making practices. A bottle of Les Poyeux 2006 is a compelling addition to any discerning wine collection.
In Bond£1,155.00 -
(12x75cl) 2008
Vinous (92)
Bright ruby with a hint of garnet at the rim. Fascinating aromas of plum, cherry and wild spices. Suave, discreetly sweet and savory, with enticingly pliant flavors of red fruits, game and sage. Finishes lush and silky, with very smooth tannins and lingering notes of redcurrant and spicecake. Rather Burgundian in character, this cabernet franc is built to age. That said, it is the only cabernet franc from Clos Rougeard that I tasted for this article that is approaching the stage where I would open a bottle.In Bond£6,915.00 -
(6x75cl) 2011
Vinous (92+)
Deep ruby. Lovely lift to the gamey aromas of blackberry, violet and wild flowers. Discreetly sweet, layered and seamless, showing perfectly integrated acidity and a chalky quality to the vibrant tannins. Juicy, vinous, intense and delicately suave, this distinguished cabernet franc finishes with subdued cassis fruit, subtle spices and superb length, reminding Nady of the 1993.In Bond£1,387.00 -
Vinous (95)
There's a gorgeous nectarine-like character that runs through Les Poyeux when young and the 2016 is no different. It's silky and seductive in a non-opulent way. Finesse is a word that crops up repeatedly when I tasted this wine: finesse of fragrance - this is delightfully perfumed, pure and precise; finesse of tannins with their fine chalky texture. It is long, scented and charming, thus it could be approached now if you wished but it has a medium to long life ahead.In Bond£1,460.00 -
(3x75cl) 2016
Vinous (95)
There's a gorgeous nectarine-like character that runs through Les Poyeux when young and the 2016 is no different. It's silky and seductive in a non-opulent way. Finesse is a word that crops up repeatedly when I tasted this wine: finesse of fragrance - this is delightfully perfumed, pure and precise; finesse of tannins with their fine chalky texture. It is long, scented and charming, thus it could be approached now if you wished but it has a medium to long life ahead.In Bond£636.08 -
Vinous (95)
There's a gorgeous nectarine-like character that runs through Les Poyeux when young and the 2016 is no different. It's silky and seductive in a non-opulent way. Finesse is a word that crops up repeatedly when I tasted this wine: finesse of fragrance - this is delightfully perfumed, pure and precise; finesse of tannins with their fine chalky texture. It is long, scented and charming, thus it could be approached now if you wished but it has a medium to long life ahead.In Bond£1,247.00
