VDF "Rive Droite" (Red) 2017

A long-aged blend of Meunier and Pinot Noir. Light, fragrant and full of red fruit. Pomegranate, tart cherry with a floral lift and an earthy underlay. Soft tannins and tangy acidity.

While Reynald Héaulé is known for his passion for blending rare and native grapes, this cuvée uses just two varieties– Pinot Noir and Meunier. Each year he adjusts the recipe for the percentages of each grape used.

The name Rive Droite, or right bank, references the two parcels used for this wine which are on the North Side of the Loire river. The terroir there is different from the majority of his parcels, with changes in climate and clay-rich soil that yields more powerful wines.

Vinification: Ten year-old vines grown on quartz, limestone and clay soils. Grapes are hand-harvested and macerated for fifteen days before pressing. Spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts. Blending of varieties occurs throughout the winemaking process. Final blend aged in old oak barrels for 30 months.

Match it with: Roast pork, mushrooms, game birds. Also great with pizza!