2011 Charles Joguet, Chinon “Les Petites Roches” Loire Valley, France.
On a night where Kermit Lynch was signing his books, the 25th anniversary edition of his famous “Adventues on the Wine Route” and rarities like Vieux Telegraphe and Raveneau were being poured, this little Cabernet Franc shined just as bright and was a scene stealing vixen. Charles Joguet’s Chinon wines are not secrets, but sometimes forgotten, and they deserve a bit more attention, this 2011 certainly is a stunner with ultra pure fruit, terroir and striking mineral focus, I have also adored the Les Petites Roches and the 2011 vintage brings all my memories of admiration and enjoyment of Joguet’s wines over the years, and I thank Kermit Lynch for discovering this domaine and sharing them with us, and while I did of course love the Raveneau Chablis and VT Chateauneuf, it is this little Cabernet Franc that made me get a signed copy of Kermit’s book, even though I do own the original still. The 2011 Joguet Les Petites Roches Chinon starts with violets, crushed stones and blackberry to go with it’s dark purple edged garnet hue leading to a palate of classic Franc layers of plum, black cherry, blackberry and huckleberry fruits with allspice, garden grown peppers, cedar and sandalwood. There is a cool steely edge, this mineral essence runs throughout and brings the terroir into focus, all said and done this wine has vitality, grace, earthiness and balance, the acidity is juicy fresh and gives lots of vibrancy, vigor and life, drink this beauty over the next 5 to 7 years.
($25 Est.) 93 Points, grapelive
avail at www.sfwtc.com ($21.95)