La Grange aux Belles 2023 La Chaussée Rouge

La Chaussée Rouge is a blend of 40% Cabernet Franc, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Grolleau grown on black schist soils, and named after the vineyard site, a battleground in the War of the Vendée. The grapes are hand-harvested before fermenting as whole clusters in fiberglass, undergoing full carbonic maceration. The wine is a blend of free run juice and pressed juices that ages 6 months before bottling. "We're trying to make Poulsard!" says winemaker Marc Boutin. It's bright and energetic, with crunchy red fruit and zippy acidity, incredibly fresh and uplifting. There are hints of herbs and subtle vegetal notes but not particularly green, with the Grolleau and Cab Sauv lending enough punchy fruit to make it a fun, juicy light red that does well with a chill.