# Château d'Eternes Saumur Rouge (2018)

- **Producer:** Château d'Eternes
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Franc
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €9
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 15–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, black cherry, red plum, blueberry, violet, spice

## About this wine

Château d'Eternes Saumur Rouge 2018 is a 100% Cabernet Franc from the Saumur appellation in France's Loire Valley. The Château d'Eternes estate has a rich history, with origins dating back to the 9th century and the winery established in the 18th century. The Saumur region benefits from a warm, dry microclimate and distinctive tuffeau limestone soils, which are well-suited to Cabernet Franc. The producer is recognized in the 'Guide Hachette', highlighting their commitment to quality.

## Interesting facts

- Estate history dates back to the 9th century.
- Saumur is the warmest and driest part of the Loire Valley.
- Tuffeau limestone soils are a hallmark of the region.
- Producer is recognized in the 'Guide Hachette'.

## Food pairing

The medium+ body and silky tannins of this Cabernet Franc are well-suited to complement the protein and fat in red meat dishes, softening the tannins and enhancing the savory flavors. The wine's inherent fruitiness can also provide a pleasant contrast to richer sauces.

## Wine making process

The Château d'Eternes Saumur Rouge 2018 is produced using grapes fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. The process includes a cold maceration period followed by controlled fermentation, with pigeage (punching down the cap) and long maceration techniques employed. After fermentation, the wine undergoes a 6-month aging period in stainless steel tanks before bottling. Viticultural practices include tilling and grassing every other row, along with integrated farming methods.