At a glance

Producer

Clos du Tue-Boeuf

Region

Loire Valley, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Franc

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40 - $55

Tasting profile

Fresh notes of red currant, cherry, wet earth, and graphite; medium tannins and a vibrant acidity frame the flavors.

Evolution: Fruit will become more complex, developing secondary notes of forest floor, leather, and tobacco over the next 3-7 years.

At peak: Balanced expression of fruit, earth, and subtle spice with softened tannins and integrated acidity.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus acidity keeping the wine fresh

Tannins

Medium to firm tannins providing good structure

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

10-15 years under proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2032

Optimal window

2024 to 2035

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

Drinking well with some tannic structure present; fruit and savory earth notes developing

Clos du Tue-Boeuf is praised for producing age-worthy Cabernet Franc from the Loire; 2020’s quality and structure supports a decade or more of maturation with a drinking window that allows evolution into complex tertiary aromas.

Food pairing

Pairs well with roast duck, game birds, mushroom-based dishes, grilled meats, and aged cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To allow the wine to open up and soften its tannins, enhancing aromatic complexity.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Uses biodynamic viticulture methods focusing on soil health and biodiversity preservation; energy-efficient winery operation; minimal intervention in winemaking; uses sustainable packaging with lightweight glass bottles and recyclable labels.

Clos du Tue-Boeuf dedicates strong efforts toward environmental stewardship with organic and biodynamic certification, sustainable vineyard management, and reduced energy/water use, supporting high sustainability standards in both vineyard and winery operations.