Olga Raffault, Chinon Les Picasses 2011, Loire, France

Tasting Note: A Chinon with weight, sturdiness and backbone that could stand up to backyard grilling.

Deep ruby in color this aromatic cabernet franc has a nose of a violet, black plum, raspberry and red currant topped off with aromas of cedar and forest floor.

On the palate the dry, medium-plus bodied Chinon displays restrained red and black flavors that are at once fully developed without being overly ripe.

There is some mid-palate complexity and roundness that completes with hints of chalk on the finish.

Cedar is more prominent on the nose than the palate.