Chateau de la Roche Cabernet Franc Malbec Grolleau ‘Cuvee Marcel’ 2016

Chateau de la Roche en Loire benefits from an ideal micro climate, bordered on one side by the Chinon Forest and overlooking the valleys of the Loire and Indre. The mildness of the climate, typical of the region, is perfect for the vines which are planted on gentle slopes on soil composed on clay, sand and flint, giving the Chateau’s wines their special character.

Their wine making marries modern techniques with time-honored traditions. Controlled, measured volumes; grass grown between the rows of vines (hosting the natural predators of insects attracted to the grapes); and channels for draining away rainwater all reflect a respect for nature and quality. The grapes are harvested manually, carried to the low-temperature storehouse on wooden trays, sorted on tables, and then gently passed through a pneumatic press. In other words, a totally natural method of wine making, with no addition of yeast or other additives; a slow process of fermentation in low temperatures; maturing in oak barrels for micro-oxydation; without filtration.

The Marcel is made from the Cabernet Franc and Cot or Malbec grape. Dark in color, dense and full in taste and nose, with hints of griotte cherry, these red ages well and are a natural companion to meat and cheese dishes.