92 points Stephan Reinhardt (Wine Advocate): "From a single, west-facing parcel in Brézé that was planted in the 1960s on a sandy loam layer topping Turonian limestone comes the 2018 Saumur Rouge La Ripaille. A pure Cabernet Franc, it opens with a fine and concentrated yet discreet, calm and elegant nose of dark fruits and spices. Macerated fully destemmed in the infusion style, with no pump-overs or punch-downs in concrete for nine days and then aged on fine lees for 12 months in small, used barrels and a further six months in stainless steel, the medium to full-bodied wine comes onto the palate elegant and seamlessly textured, with juicy, elegant fruit, fine tannins and a firm and refreshing mineral acidity, yet it remains a bit reductive or caged for the moment. Nevertheless, this is a promising, fleshy and seriously structured Cabernet that was bottled unfined and with a light filtration. 13% alcohol. Tasted in May 2021. Drink: 2022-2036. (Oct 2021)"
90 points Wine Spectator: "[$60 list] This red sports an elegant feel, with ripe, fleshy notes of plum sauce, dark cherry and coffee. The acidity gives it a lift and makes it vibrant, while medium tannins provide support and structure. Good length. Drink now through 2027. 242 cases made, 90 cases imported. (2021)"
90 points Wine Spectator: "[$60 list] This red sports an elegant feel, with ripe, fleshy notes of plum sauce, dark cherry and coffee. The acidity gives it a lift and makes it vibrant, while medium tannins provide support and structure. Good length. Drink now through 2027. 242 cases made, 90 cases imported. (2021)"
| Product SKU | 341186 |
| Producer | stater-west/brendan |
| Country | France |
| Region | Loire |
| SubRegion | Saumur/Saumur-Champigny |
| Varietal | Cabernet Franc |
| Vintage | 2018 |
| Size | 750ml |
| Color | Red |
| ABV | 13.0% |
| Ships To |
