At a glance

Producer

Domaine de la Butte Mi-Pente

Region

Bourgueil, Loire Valley, France

Grape variety

Cabernet Franc

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$25-$40

Tasting profile

Red and black berry fruits (red currant, raspberry), floral notes, subtle earthiness, hints of graphite and spice

Evolution: Fruit will integrate more with subtle tertiary notes of forest floor and leather developing after 3-5 years

At peak: Balanced complexity with harmonious tannins and developed savory notes.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to high, refreshing

Tannins

Medium firm, fine-grained

Alcohol

13-14%

Aging potential

8-12 years with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2045

Optimal window

2023 to 2048

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window

Current condition

Vibrant fruit, developing complexity, firm but integrated tannins

The wine’s medium tannin structure and bright acidity typical of Bourgueil Cabernet Franc combine to allow a 8-12 year aging window; 2020 was a very good vintage with warm ripening but retained freshness, thus the wine will reach ideal maturity around 5-7 years post vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs well with roast lamb, grilled meats, pork tenderloin, mushroom risotto, and medium-bodied cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To allow the wine to open up and soften tannins for smoother mid-palate.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Focus on minimizing chemical inputs, cover crops to maintain soil health, manual harvesting, energy-efficient cellar operations, and reduction of plastic use in packaging.

Domaine de la Butte Mi-Pente embraces sustainable viticulture standards common in quality Loire producers; while not certified organic or biodynamic, the estate actively manages vineyard ecology to reduce environmental impact, conserves water through drip irrigation, and optimizes packaging to reduce waste and emissions compared to typical industrial production.