At a glance

Producer

Clos Rougeard

Region

AOC Saumur-Champigny, Loire, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Franc

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$90-$130

Tasting profile

Red fruits (cherry, raspberry), floral notes, graphite, hints of earth and wet stone

Evolution: Will develop tertiary notes of forest floor, leather, and game with age; tannins will soften and integrate

At peak: Complex layers of mineral, tobacco, spice, and nuanced red fruit on the palate with elegant finish

Structure

Acidity

Bright and balanced, typical of Loire Cabernet Franc

Tannins

Firm and fine-grained, providing excellent aging structure

Alcohol

Moderate, approximately 12.5%-13.0%

Aging potential

Excellent, 20-25+ years from vintage in proper conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2042

Optimal window

2025 to 2045

Current status

Approaching early maturity with significant aging potential

Current condition

Still developing primary fruit and firm tannins with good freshness

The wine’s firm tannic structure and bright acidity typical of Cabernet Franc from this terroir support long aging potential. The quality of the 2017 vintage and Clos Rougeard’s meticulous vineyard work add 5-10 years above average Loire Cabernet Franc longevity.

Food pairing

Pairs well with roasted lamb, game birds, duck breast, mushroom dishes, and medium-aged cheeses like Morbier or Comté.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To allow tannins to soften and aromas to open up, especially given its youth and structure

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Clos Rougeard employs organic viticulture, minimal intervention winemaking, limited use of additives, manual harvest, and minimal sulfite usage. They emphasize soil health, biodiversity, and natural fermentations.

Clos Rougeard’s certification as organic and consistent biodynamic practices reflect high environmental stewardship. The estate’s small production and focus on terroir preservation contribute to sustainability. Although exported internationally, the winery’s local practices and minimal intervention approach lower environmental impacts compared to industrial producers.