Raffault, Olga 2019 Chinon Les Picasses

Les Picasses is one of the greatest vineyards in Chinon - the Raffault's parcel faces gently south, with clay over porous limestone that retains water and nutrients, nourishing the vines. While the wine is amply fruited and enjoyable young, it has firm acidity and structure for long-term aging, up to 30 years and more depending on the vintage. 2019 was a good vintage for Loire reds, which generally showed ripe fruit, moderate acidity, and good density. The wines are full-bodied and well-structured for aging. The 2019 Raffault Picasses shows a deep red/black color with aromas of morello cherry, red currant, blackberry and prune with hints of licorice, earth and black pepper. The palate shows firm tannins and sappy red and black fruits with chalky minerals and firm acidity, with a bit of the gamey, musky aspect of old-school Chinon.  Earthy prune, plum and cherry fruits linger in the long finish. Please decant two to three hours in advance if drinking now, then serve a bit cool with roast chicken, pork or lamb. This will sing a different song after 6 to 8 years of aging, best perhaps 2026-2045.