At a glance

Producer

Charles Joguet

Region

Chinon, Loire Valley, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Franc

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$28–$45 USD retail

Tasting profile

Layered red and black fruits (cherry, raspberry, blackcurrant), graphite, violets, dried herbs, subtle earthiness, hints of tobacco and sous-bois

Evolution: Primary fruit softens, more pronounced forest floor, dried leaf, mineral, and savory pepper notes

At peak: At peak 2016–2021: vibrant fruit and freshness with developed floral and mineral accents; now: softer palate, tertiary notes, fading brightness

Structure

Acidity

Bright, fairly high (classic Loire)

Tannins

Medium, integrated

Alcohol

Moderate (12–13%)

Aging potential

Good for a cuvée terroir, but best within 10–12 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2015 to 2021

Optimal window

2013 to 2023

Current status

Drinking well, approaching the end of optimal window

Current condition

Mature, with tertiary notes; still drinkable but will gradually decline

Charles Joguet’s Cuvée Terroir is crafted for mid-term cellaring, designed to showcase fruit purity and regional expression. The 2010 vintage peaked after 5–8 years, and at 13–14 years, most bottles offer softened tannins, rewarding tertiary complexity, but less vivid fruit, especially if not perfectly cellared.

Food pairing

Roast duck, charcuterie, lentil and sausage stew, grilled lamb chops, aged chèvre, mushroom risotto

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine is 15 years old and while the tannins are integrated, decanting will help to enhance its aromas and flavors, allowing it to open up further.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Emphasis on minimal intervention, hand-harvesting, cover crops, natural pest management, moderate water use (rain-fed vineyards), lightweight glass bottles, growing solar energy investment

Charles Joguet is recognized in the Loire for sustainable viticulture and transitioning toward full organic and biodynamic farming. In 2010, most plots followed organic principles, though official certification trailed later. Energy use is well-managed, and packaging is eco-conscious. Estates in the Loire benefit from less irrigation and mild inputs. The main carbon impact is from overseas transport; for EU markets, the footprint is low. Progress since 2010 further bolsters Joguet’s reputation for sustainability.