Place: Saumur-Champigny — Loire Valley, France

Variety: Cabernet Franc

Farming: Biodynamic

The Hardouin family has farmed vineyards in the Loire’s appellations of Saumur and Saumur-Champigny since 1783! However, the most exciting chapter for this estate began in 2017 when the great Loire vigneron Nicholas Reau took over farming and winemaking. Purity of fruit and racy texture are the hallmark here, resonating with great energy and a remarkable sense of place.

Volage is entirely cabernet franc from sandy-limestone soils, fermented and raised in large-format concrete. It is plump yet fresh, bursting with purple fruit and dried herbs. Autumn wine if we’ve ever seen one!