Breton/Catherine & Pierre Bourgueil "Trinch!" 2020

Domaine Breton is situated in the village of Restigné, to the east of Bourgueil and is run by Pierre and Catherine Breton who have been in charge of the estate since 1989. There are 11 hectares in all, mainly in Bourgueil but also in Chinon, and some of the most interesting wines in the Loire come from this estate's cellars. The vineyards are farmed biodynamically, only indigenous yeasts are used and all the grapes are hand-harvested from low yields. Very little sulphur is used in the wine making process and the wines are unfiltered. 'Trinch' (meaning 'clink') is made from 100% Cabernet Franc (appropriately known locally as 'Breton') and is probably the best known wine to come from the estate. From young vines grown on gravelly soil, this vibrant red can be chilled and works well with flavorful fish dishes.

Tasting Notes: A dark cherry-red in the glass. On the nose, scents of orange peel, liquorice and pine. Medium-bodied on the palate with an elegant acidity and balanced tannins. Sweet-edged notes of cherry and caramel. The finish is short yet snappy, making this a great food wine. Try with a salad of Anjou pears, blue cheese and toasted walnuts, grilled mackerel with a beetroot bouillon and brussels sprouts or pancetta-wrapped figs with goat's cheese and pesto.