This rich, wood-aged wine comes from a north-facing vineyard across the Vienne river from Chinon. Its tight tannins are still young as are the red-currant and berry fruits that shine through the structure. This wine obviously needs to age; drink from 2022.

A very fresh red, with cassis and rose hip flavors streaming from start to finish, fueled by sleek, lively acidity. The slightly chalky structure provides support and promises a long life ahead. An alluring Earl Grey tea aroma extends on the finish. Beautiful now, but give this a few more years. Best from 2021 through 2028.

The 2016 Chinon Les Varennes du Grand Clos shows precise, perfectly ripe and concentrated dark fruit, such as spicy blackcurrants, plus discreet oak aromas on the nose. The palate is pure and fresh and reveals fine tannins intertwined with a salty-mineral finish. This is a very promising Cabernet Franc with very nice juiciness.