# Chinon Les Charmes (2015)

- **Producer:** Charles Joguet
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Franc
- **Region:** Loire, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €44
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, black plum, herbaceous, red cherry, red plum, butter, cream, earth, leather

## About this wine

Chinon Les Charmes Charles Joguet 2015 is a red wine from the Chinon appellation in the Loire Valley, France, made from 100% Cabernet Franc. The wine originates from the 'Les Charmes' vineyard, characterized by clay and limestone soils and vines averaging 30-40 years in age. Producer Charles Joguet is recognized for his pioneering work in single-vineyard bottlings, aiming to express the distinctiveness of each terroir. The estate is committed to organic and sustainable viticulture. The 2015 vintage benefited from a sunny growing season, with cooler temperatures near harvest contributing to good acidity.

## Interesting facts

- Inspired by Burgundy's single-vineyard approach.
- Vines for Les Charmes average 30-40 years old.
- Certified organic and vegan-friendly.
- Estate practices include grassing between rows.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and balanced tannins make it a versatile partner for protein-rich dishes. Its inherent freshness and subtle herbal notes complement the savory character of meats and earthy vegetables, while its acidity can cut through richer sauces.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Chinon Les Charmes Charles Joguet 2015 begins with destemming the grapes before they enter the fermentation tanks to minimize oxidation. Fermentation is carried out in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats. Since 2009, malolactic fermentation for this cuvée has taken place in barrels, contributing to its texture and fruit expression. The wine is then aged for 8 months in wooden vats, with some indications of 400-liter barrels being used. The estate practices sustainable agriculture and is certified organic, employing methods such as grassing between rows, late pruning, de-budding, de-leafing, and green harvesting to manage yields. Harvesting is done by hand.