Description
Domaine de la Chanteleuserie sits outside the village of Benais in the Loire Valley, within the AOC of Bourgueil. Only reds and rosés can be labelled ‘Bourgueil’, and Cabernet Franc is the primary varietal of the region, although some blending is allowed. Vineyards were planted here during the first century CE and were held in high esteem throughout the Roman Empire. Cabernet Franc, however, gained in popularity during the 17th century when Abbot Breton of Bourgueil Abbey cultivated it with such excellence, that other vignerons in the region replaced their vines with the varietal. His legacy lives on today as Cabernet Franc is known locally as Breton.
The domaine is run by Thierry Boucard and his wife, Christine, where wine has been made for seven generations. The Boucards are committed to pure varietal wines: this Crémant is made from 100% Cabernet Franc, cultivated in siliceous clay; vinified according to the méthode traditionnelle with direct-pressing, secondary fermentation in the bottle, and a minimum of 9 months aging sur latte. The finished wine is light and bright with a persistent bead, the palate shows flavors of fresh strawberry, red currant and citrus pith; followed by a touch of peppery spice and subtle mineral notes on the juicy finish. Overall, a refreshing bubbly with a good balance of fruit and complexity.
