Amirault Vignerons, Clos des Quarterons Vieilles Vignes, Loire, 2021

Family run for 180 years, Xavier and Agnes Amirault are the latest generation to biodynamically farm 37 ha across 53 parcels. Cabernet Franc is the dominant variety: the emphasis is on elegance and finesse. Les Quarterons comes from sand/gravel soils with the more concentrated Vielles Vignes from clay and sandy limestone. 100% Cabernet Franc grown on mainly gravel and silty clay, with some limestone. Certified organic, the grapes are harvested by hand when they are fully mature. They are sorted both on the vine and at the winery. Made from an assemblage from all the old plots of vines on the estate (average age 55 years).