Raffault 2009 Chinon "Les Picasses"

(Pre-arrival, delayed by dock strike) Olga Raffault has always been one of my favorite producers, likely because it was one of the first great Loire reds I stumbled upon early in my wine life.  The 2009 Les Picasses comes from a classic, rather warm vintage that produced ripe, full-bodied wines that remain balanced, although certainly with less acidity that the 2008. The nose leads with red plum and dark cherries followed by classic herbaceous notes, tobacco and earth.  The palate shows elegance with soft tannins and plenty of acidity even though the flavors are bold: red plums, turned earth, and a fresh herbaceous character. A great pairing for roasted chicken and herbed potatoes, seared salmon with salsa verde, or pork sirloin steaks. Open and decant now or age for another few years, then drink until 2030 and beyond, and above all else enjoy!  (2018 review)