2012HureauTuffe2012 Chateau du Hureau, Saumur-Champigny Rouge “Tuffe” Loire Valley, France.
This is a heck of a wine for $16! The Chateau du Hureau Saumur-Champigny is a beautiful terroir inspired dark hued Cabernet Franc with layers of perfumed floral tones and soft spicy notes to go along with classic plum, black raspberry, cherry and cranberry fruits. Hints of cinnamon, crushed violets, mineral and bell pepper complete the picture of the Chateau du Hureau “Tuffe” cuvee, it comes from many small plots both with young and old vines grown on the local ancient limestone, a white chalky soil that gives the wine it’s name and character. The 2012 vintage is full of juicy almost Pinot Noir/Burgundy like class with fine satiny tannins and good acidity, with it’s light/medium body making it beautiful to drink right now, really showing well and hitting all the key points this detailed Franc is such a bargain, you should certainly check it out. What this wine may lack in intensity and or power, it more than makes up for with grace, sex appeal and pleasure, there is a lovely finish with tangy blue fruits and lingering earthiness that drives home it’s compelling nature and purity. Imported on the west coast by Charles Neal, this historic Chateau on the Loire River is showing impressive form and has a savvy smooth style, drink over the next 3 to 5 years, this Hureau Tuffe is absolutely spot on.
($16 Est.) 91 Points, grapelive

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