Producer | DOMAINE DES GRANDES ESPERANCES |
---|---|
Country | FRANCE |
Type | STILL RED |
AOC | TOURAINE |
Vintage | 2015 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Score | 0 |
Packing Size | 6C |
Domaine des Grandes Espérances, located in Mesland, Loire Valley, France, is a family-run estate founded in 1998, dedicated to organic viticulture since 2011. Spanning 30 hectares, the winery cultivates Chenin Blanc and other local varieties on flinty clay soils, emphasizing sustainability and terroir expression. Under winemaker Laurent Trottier, the estate employs meticulous hand-harvesting and minimal-intervention techniques to craft vibrant, authentic wines. Known for its innovative cuvées, Domaine des Grandes Espérances blends tradition with creativity, producing wines like Aurore that reflect the Loire’s mineral-driven character. The estate’s commitment to quality has earned it recognition for its elegant, terroir-focused offerings.
The 2015 Domaine des Grandes Espérances Les Ailes Pourpres Touraine is 100% Cabernet Franc from vines on flinty clay soils. Hand-harvested in October, grapes undergo a 4-day maceration in open barrels at 20°C, followed by fermentation in the same barrels with daily cap punching. The wine ages for 18 months in oak barrels (25% new). Bottled with minimal sulfites, it has a 13% alcohol content and is certified organic (FR-BIO-01). The 2015 vintage’s warm conditions yield concentrated fruit and balanced acidity, reflecting the terroir’s mineral complexity.
Les Ailes Pourpres 2015 displays a deep ruby hue, with a nose of dark fruit, blackberry, and spices, finishing with subtle vanilla and licorice notes. The palate is well-structured and elegant, offering black cherry, plum, and earthy undertones, balanced by fine tannins and a fresh, long finish. Serve at 16-18°C with pork, poultry, or beef dishes. This Cabernet Franc’s vibrant fruit and minerality make it approachable now or suitable for cellaring for added depth. Its refined balance reflects the Loire’s terroir beautifully.