Source du Ruault 2023 Saumur-Champigny Sensei

Jean-Noel Millon's La Source du Ruault is in Varrain with vines near those of Antoine Sanzay and Roches Neuves. The cuvée Sensei is from 100% Cabernet Franc grown on clay soils over Turonian limestone, harvested late seeking a full, round style, and is vinified and aged in cement (like the Baudry's"les Grezeaux").  This needs some aeration, then shows aromas of ripe red and black fruits - plum, strawberry, cassis - with notes of earth and cocoa. The palate is rather lush and round but there is firm acidity as well, making this a good candidate for coq au vin, pork stews, terrines and charcuterie. Serve a bit cool.