Baudry 2023 Chinon, Le Domaine (Cabernet Franc) Loire Valley, France
$24.99 bottle / $131.94($21.99) six-pack If you're unfamiliar with Loire Cabernet Franc or have had your interest peaked by Washington or California Cab Francs and want to take the step to more complex and food-friendly wines, then here's the ticket! The Le Domaine is Baudry's Chinon cuvée is made for near to medium term drinking and it can't be beat for its price-to-quality ratio as a bistro style red. The 2023 offers elegant aromas of berry, wet stone, and herbs, with supple, fresh red fruit and mineral flavors carrying through the palate. It’s very aromatic with ripe Cab Franc fruit that sidles up nicely next to soil-driven notes. It drinks well now but has the structure to reward another five to ten years in the cellar. Pair it with game, roasted duck, or a plate of wild mushrooms. Enjoy with burgers, steaks, mushroom dishes and all manner of pork. A great deal.