Warm up with these new releases at the LCBO this month, a special Chinon from the Les Picasses lieu-dit in the Loire, and a 97 point Vintage Port.
Read below for details, along with link to purchase.
Jean-Maurice Raffault Les Picasses Chinon 2020
Jean-Maurice Raffault and Rodolphe Raffault’s family began cultivating vines in Chinon 14 generations ago, when their ancestor, Mathurin Bottreau, bought his first parcel of vines in 1693. Today, Domaine Jean-Maurice Raffault owns 50 organically farmed hectares of vines in 7 communes. This certified organic cabernet franc is from the Les Picasses lieu dit, atop a plateau overlooking the Vienne, the windiness of the site reflected in the windmill on the label. Vines have been planted here since the 15th century. Soils here are stony limestone and clay. After destemming and a native ferment, with one month skin contact, this moves to barriques for MLF and aging 12 months on fine lees.
Super perfumed, with ample fragrant plums, wild blackberry, thorns, and crushed florals on a medium palate, gripped with ample firm, gritty tannins, and finishing with a lingering peppery note. Lovely lift and freshness, encouraging partnering this with food (think grilled sausages).
“Exemplary as a cabernet franc for traditional Chinon, if surely pure, clean and pristine set in a modern era of Loire design. Crunchy and sweetly herbal, focused and unbridled with varietal energy. Great food wine, for whatever gastronomical pairing needs are needed. Personally the lead idea would be roast pork, char siu or XO sauce style. Drink 2026-2028. Tasted October 2026.” 91 points, Michael Godel, WineAlign.com
Read more about Jean-Maurice Raffault here.
Appellation : AOC Chinon
Region : Loire Valley
Country : France
Grape(s) : Cabernet Franc
Price : $27.95
LCBO : 367011
Niepoort Vintage Port 2022
From schistous vineyards in the Cima Corgo, and vines 80-100 years, this magisterial vintage port blends Touriga Franca, Tinto Cão, Tinta Francisca, Tinta Amarela, Sousão, Tinta Roriz and others. After foot treading in lagares, this aged 2 years in tonel before bottling.
"Niepoort has been crafting outstanding wines since 1842, and the 2022 Vintage Port is no exception. Highly rated, this port offers intense aromas of fresh dark fruit, such as black cherry and blueberry, complemented by floral and violet notes. It's full and well-balanced, with a long finish. Best from 2035 to 2050." 97 points, Luis Gutierrez, Robertparker.com
Read more about Niepoort here.
Region : Douro Valley
Country : Portugal
Grape(s) : Field Blend
Price : $149.95
LCBO : 30892
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Cheers,
Le Sommelier
416.603.7026
bernard@lesommelier.com
