Sergio's Pick

Ok it's time to address the elephant in the room. For better or worse, Cabernet Franc gets tagged with "green" more than any other red wine. Its pyrazines are what produces bell pepper aromas often associated with the grape. I happen to enjoy these notes as long as they are in the background like they are in this charming 'Franco de Porc' example that opens with with crunchy redcurrants, tart raspberries, and a classic hint of savory green peppercorn. The palate is light and energetic, balancing juicy acidity with supple tannins and a distinct stony minerality from the sand and gravel soils. It’s an incredibly fresh, approachable red that finishes with a playful, earthy snap.

Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, Domaine de la Chevalerie has been a family-owned estate since 1640, with the 14th generation of the Caslot family currently managing its 33 to 38 hectares. The estate is a pioneer of biodynamic viticulture in the Bourgueil appellation, emphasizing low-intervention winemaking and the expression of distinct vineyard parcels through separate bottlings. Their historic "tuffeau" limestone cellars, dating back to the 11th century, provide a cathedral-like environment for aging their 100% Cabernet Franc wines.

The 'Franco de Porc' cuvée (also known as Diptyque) is sourced from 30-year-old vines grown on an alluvial terrace near the Loire River, where 1–2 meters of deep sand and gravel intermixed with clay produce a supple, fruit-forward style.