Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny 2016

94 points Chris Kissack (Winedoctor): "The fruit for the domaine cuvée comes mainly from vines on clay and limestone soils, although there is a small contribution from a more sandy terroir. The élevage is in older barrels, typically three- or four-years old, previously used for Le Poyeux or Le Bourg. The nose here carries a delightful energy, perfumed with violets, black cherry and black olive. This is followed by a tension on the palate, taut and as energetic as the nose suggested, yet rich in dark fruit and supported by a supple bed of tannins. Fresh, cool, with great definition and length. (Jun 2019)"

94 points Jason Wilson (Vinous): "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. Drink: 2023-2036. (Aug 2022)"

93 points La Revue du Vin de France: "Antoine Foucault, Charly's son, tactfully took charge of the vinification of these splendid 2016s which have just left the cellars of Chace. Le Clos beautifully embodies the textured and ethereal Cabernet Francs that the estate produces in great vintages. An already very alluring wine, with substance and an irresistible ease of drinking. (2022)"