Frédéric Mabileau “Les Rouilleres”
saint-nicolas-de-bourguiel, france | 2022
This is a great chillable Summer-red for that next warm patio hangout you may have coming up on the horizon. Winemaker Frédéric Mabileau, who tragically passed away in August 2020, always wanted to maintain a sense of fun and frivolity with his wines. The "Les Rouillères" vineyard was the first Mabileau and his wife planted in 1983 and its name stands as a tribute to its legacy translating to “the rusty ones” referring to the older vines. This biodynamically-certified, vegan-friendly red wine hails from the Loire Valley's cool-climate Touraine region, specifically Saint Nicolas-de-Bourgueil - a UNESCO world heritage site. Crafted from 100% Cabernet Franc, "Les Rouillères" is a fresh and thirst-quenching wine, bursting with sappy red fruits like dark cherry and crunchy raspberry. It exudes a youthful, vibrant feel due to going through partial carbonic maceration.
The Frédéric Mabileau estate, spanning 28 hectares, has become one of the preeminent producers of Cabernet Franc over the past two decades. Following Frederic's passing, his wife Natalie and sons Charly and Rémy have continued to manage the Domaine, which includes vineyard holdings in Saint Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, Bourgueil, Saumur, and Anjou. The estate has been certified Organic since 2007 and Biodynamic since 2018, reflecting a commitment to sustainable and natural winemaking. The wines produced here are noted for their purity and complexity, qualities that are particularly evident in "Les Rouillères.”
The 2022 vintage of "Les Rouillères" offers a light-bodied yet finely structured profile, characterized by ripe red fruits, fresh acidity, and a subtle smoky edge. This highly acclaimed wine is perfect for immediate enjoyment or can be cellared for up to five years. It pairs beautifully with dishes like pasta Arrabiata or Thai satay chicken, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Open an hour before serving and enjoy it with a slight chill to fully appreciate its nuanced flavors and vibrant character.