Clos Rougeard, Saumur Champigny, Les Poyeux, Loire, France ***On Allocation***, 2020

Producer Profile

Located not far from the village of Saumur, Clos Rougeard was run by eight successive generations of the same family.

The most recent, brothers Charly and Nady Foucault, adopting a singular philosophy of “leaving the wine in peace so it can express its own identity” since they took over in the 1980s. In 2017 the estate was purchased by the Bouygues family, who have continued the work begun by their predecessors to enhance reputations of Saumur and Saumur-Champigny while maintaining a deep respect for the heritage that has gone before them.

Viticulture

The Les Poyeux vineyard is located in the Saumur-Champigny appellation of the Loire Valley, known for its exceptional clay and limestone soils. The vines are cultivated using organic farming practices, with minimal intervention to allow the terroir to express itself fully. The vineyard's unique microclimate and soil composition contribute to the wine's distinctive character and aging potential.

Winemaking

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo a gentle pressing to extract the juice. Fermentation occurs in oak barrels, where the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation to enhance its texture and complexity. The wine is aged on its lees for an extended period, which imparts additional depth and richness. This traditional winemaking approach ensures that the wine retains its purity and reflects the unique characteristics of the Les Poyeux terroir.

Tasting Note

A deep ruby colour and offers aromas of ripe blackberries, cherries, and subtle floral notes. On the palate, the wine is elegant and structured, with flavours of red fruits, herbs, and a touch of spice. The finish is long and refined, with well-integrated tannins and a refreshing acidity.

Food matching

This wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including roasted poultry, grilled meats, and soft cheeses.