At a glance

Producer

Clos Rougeard

Region

Saumur-Champigny, Loire Valley, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Franc

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$150-$250

Tasting profile

Red and black berry fruit, graphite, floral notes, fresh herbs, underlying minerality

Evolution: Developing tertiary flavors of leather, forest floor, and subtle spice after 5+ years

At peak: Complex layered profile with smooth tannins and integrated acidity

Structure

Acidity

Bright, refreshing

Tannins

Firm and grainy

Alcohol

13-13.5%

Aging potential

Excellent, 25+ years potential

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2047

Optimal window

2020 to 2050

Current status

Drinking well, approaching early maturity

Current condition

Structured tannins and vibrant acidity with primary fruit developing complexity

Clos Rougeard’s 2015 vintage combines excellent vintage quality with naturally high acidity and structured tannins, enabling long graceful aging well beyond 20 years. The wine typically opens beautifully with fruit intensity early on, then transitions into complex earthy characteristics mid-aged.

Food pairing

Game birds, lamb, mushroom risotto, grilled red meats, aged cheeses

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To allow tannins to soften and aromas to develop

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Hand-harvesting, minimal intervention winemaking, use of natural yeasts, water conservation measures, solar energy panels at winery

Clos Rougeard employs environmentally sensitive farming with organic vineyard practices and sustainable energy initiatives. The winery focuses on minimizing chemical use, reducing water and energy consumption, and uses lightweight bottles to lower transportation impact. Overall, it ranks highly for sustainability among premium Loire producers.