Arnaud Lambert Saumur Champigny Terres Rouges 2022, Saint-Cry-En-Bourg, Loire Valley, France

The Champigny denomination can be added to the Saumur appellation for the greatest red wines grown in specially defined areas around eight villages near the city of Saumur. The appellation is scattered over a wide area on chalky slopes of Senonian and Eocene outcrops. The Saumur Champigny vines have a remarkable position on the upper Turonian plateau and on the plateau above the chalk. The region has a temperate maritime climate. Vinification: 100% de-stemmed, indigenous yeast alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel or concrete tank, 10 days gentle “infusion” maceration. Separation of free-run and press, 5 to 8 months aging in stainless steel concrete tank. The fragrant dark earth notes of Cabernet Franc give the impression of black soils unearthed from a thick overlay of wet forest moss, grass and bramble. Despite this dark soil impression and its name (which translates to ‘the red soils’), the soil is light brown clay with alluvial sands resting on a bed of stark white limestone. The cool harvest conditions, clay and limestone soils, and a life spent in stainless steel tanks renders this wine medium bodied with a clean and refreshing finish. Indeed, the sand plays its part as well, bringing the fruits and flowers in the bouquet to the ethereal realm.