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

$35 - $50

Tasting profile

Fresh red fruit (cherry, raspberry), herbaceous notes typical of Cabernet Franc, hints of earthiness and pepper.

Evolution: Develops more complex savory notes, tobacco, forest floor, and gentle spice with maturation.

At peak: Balanced integration of fruit, earth, and subtle oak nuances creating a refined medium-bodied wine.

Structure

Acidity

High, characteristic of Loire Cabernet Franc

Tannins

Medium to firm

Alcohol

13.0-13.5%

Aging potential

10-15 years with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2032

Optimal window

2025 to 2035

Current status

Approaching early development and freshness

Current condition

The 2022 vintage offers vibrant primary fruit with youthful tannins and notable acidity; it benefits from at least 2-3 years aging to soften and integrate.

The structured tannins and high acidity of 2022 Frileuse from Clos du Tue-Boeuf enable substantial aging, allowing primary herbaceous aromas to meld with tertiary savory and forest floor characters over 8-12 years, hitting peak complexity around 7-10 years post vintage.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, roasted pork, earthy mushroom dishes, aged goat cheese, and rustic French charcuterie.

Serving

Serving temperature

15-17°C / 59-63°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To soften firm tannins and allow aromatic complexity to unfold

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Use of cover crops, minimal chemical intervention, hand-harvesting, solar energy for winery operations, emphasis on soil health and biodiversity

Clos du Tue-Boeuf maintains a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture through certified organic and biodynamic practices, reducing chemical inputs and encouraging biodiversity. Solar energy use and eco-friendly packaging contribute positively, while regional distribution limits carbon footprint related to transport. Overall, these factors lead to a high sustainability profile.