Chinon Les Picasses

About this wine

Les Picasses is the flagship cuvée of Domaine Olga Raffault, sourced from a historic vineyard in Chinon characterized by clay-limestone soils. This wine is renowned for its remarkable longevity and structural elegance. It typically undergoes traditional fermentation in stainless steel or concrete tanks, followed by aging in old oak barrels. On the palate, it reveals complex layers of dark berries, graphite, dried herbs, and a distinct earthy minerality. With age, it develops sophisticated notes of tobacco, leather, and forest floor, making it a benchmark for Cabernet Franc in the Loire Valley.

Sommelier's Note

"This is an absolute masterpiece of Loire Valley viticulture; you must experience its evolution in the glass at least once in your life."

Food Pairings

Pairs exceptionally well with roasted lamb, game meats, duck confit, and aged hard cheeses. Its earthy profile also complements mushroom-based dishes.

When to drink it

Perfect for a formal dinner party, a celebratory meal featuring red meat, or as a special gift for a serious wine collector.

Specs

Grape Varieties

Cabernet Franc

Style

Red

Price Range

¥6,000-9,000

Terroir & Winemaking

Grapes are hand-harvested from vines averaging 50+ years old. Fermentation occurs with indigenous yeasts. The wine is aged for 18-24 months in neutral oak barrels to preserve the purity of the fruit and terroir expression.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it taste like?

It tastes like a sophisticated blend of blackcurrant, graphite, and savory earth with firm, refined tannins.

What food does it pair with?

It pairs perfectly with roasted lamb, game, and umami-rich dishes like grilled eel or mushroom risotto.

When is the best time to drink it?

It is best enjoyed between 5 to 15 years after the vintage to allow the complex tertiary aromas to fully emerge.