Cabernet Franc, Loire Valley, France

A rich and stunning Loire cab franc from a master. A serious producer to know in the natural wine world, Germain was the first winemaker to farm biodynamically in Saumur-Champigny, a testament to the dedication and incredible craftsmanship perpetually on display throughout their entire library. From a four hectare, clay and tuffeau limestone plot, the 45-year-old cab franc vines were picked by hand, left on skins for 2-5 days and aged on fine lees for 12 months to gain dense structure and finesse. Bucket of peonies, iris and eucalyptus, stewed blueberry, thick like molasses, black cherry, cloves, chocolate mint & a long cedar-inflected ending. Pour alongside any meat falling from the bone & a good book, preferably read by candlelight.