Domaine de la Noblaie, Les Chiens-Chiens Chinon 2011, Loire, France

Tasting Note: A Chinon with concentrated red and black-fruit aromatics.

Medium-intensity ruby in color this wine has an aromatic nose of raspberry, black plum, black cherry, blossom and pencil shavings.

On the palate the dry, medium-plus bodied cabernet franc reveals red and black fruit flavors suggested on the nose supported by medium tannin and acidity that gives the wine structure and provides some trace of mid-palate complexity.

The Chinon has more concentrated fruit on the nose than on the palate, and has a slightly grippy mouthfeel.

A bit more ripe than many Chinon which can have more vegetal aromas, this wine has versatility to fit many a meal you might serve.

I quite like it, especially enjoyed over the course of an evening interspersed with conversation interessant.

Bottle Note: This small production bottling has been hand-selected by Jon-David Headrick for its expression of terroir and unique character. The young and dynamic Jerome Billard fashions this single vineyard, hand-harvested bottling from a block of vines called “Les Chiens-Chiens.” 100% cabernet franc.