St-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil Cuvée Carine 2007 Tasting Notes

St-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil Cuvée Carine 2005

This year’s Option wine is from the 2005 vintage, which has proved to be an exceptional year throughout France. A slightly hotter than normal summer with lower than usual rainfall led to a harvest period at the end of September when the grapes were in a perfect ripe condition. This weather was particularly suitable for the Cabernet Franc grapes grown in this area of the Loire, and the wines produced have elegance and finesse. With a fine ruby colour, a bouquet of violets and strawberries, the palate has good depth. It is well balanced with juicy red fruit matched with ripe, smooth tannins, and will keep and improve for several more years, if carefully cellared.

One of the joys of Loire reds is that they work equally well with or without food, and this is no exception. This versatile wine works wonderfully with winter roasts, but is equally good with fish such as salmon. In the warmer months it is delicious served just below room temperature, or even slightly chilled, when it is the perfect partner to cold meats and summer salads. Try it with a hot goat’s cheese salad – another excellent combination of flavours. It can even work with soft fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries.