2022 Lame Delisle Boucard “Vieilles Vignes” Bourgueil

Deep and compelling, this 2022 from Lamé Delisle Boucard elevates old-vine Cabernet Franc with poise and precision. Harvested from vines over 40 years old in Ingrandes-de-Touraine, the fruit ripens on sandy-gravel and clay-limestone soils, lending both generosity and mineral spine. Fermented in tronconic oak and aged in large old foudres for a year, the result is a wine that marries velvety dark berry fruit with a streak of chalky minerality. A smart choice for lovers of Loire reds who crave elegance with grit.

Nose: A swirl of black raspberry, dark cherry and subtle violet lifts from the glass, followed by wet-earth and crushed stone background. The aroma is rich yet refined.

Palate: Medium-full-bodied and silky, with tobacco-leaf and bramble fruit at the core, layered beneath a gravelly mineral thread. Tannins are firm but polished, supporting the fruit rather than dominating it.

Finish: The closing is persistent yet balanced—white pepper flickers at the edge, the acidity keeps the structure fresh, and a hint of chalk and licorice lingers gently.

Serve alongside herb-roasted lamb shoulder with thyme and garlic, or duck breast with blackberry glaze. Alternatively, pair with rich lentil-and-sausage cassoulet, or a platter of aged Gouda and charcuterie. The wine’s mineral backbone and moderate tannins make it versatile with both rustic and refined dishes.