Domaine Stephane Guion
We first became addicted to the wines from Bourgueil when we shared a bottle over a pleasant lunch in Paris.
When we planned our first Loire excursion we looked for an organic producer from this area and Stéphane Guion seemed to fit the bill perfectly having been one of the first to adopt organic practices in this area. The Bourgueil appellation area is centered on the village of the same name which lies to the west of Tours. It is a red wine only appellation.
He only produces two cuvees of red wine from his aged vines which range from 35 to 80 years old.
Stéphane is a quiet, thoughtful man who takes his winemaking very seriously and we think that results speak for themselves.
His wines are natural because the vines are tended organically (and have been since 1965), he only uses the natural yeasts on the fruit to ferment the wines and there are no additives with the exception of very low amounts of sulphur added during bottling to preserve the wine on its long journey out here. He has certification from Ecocert for his organic vineyard as shown on the labels.
And, even though these wines are sold at a very, very good price, they will last for many years if you want to tuck a few away. We have tried examples of Stephane's wines that are over 25 years old and they are still fresh, vibrant and exciting to drink.
These two wines represent the most sensational value for money you are likely to find. They are great wines at a great price!
Domaine Stéphane Guion Bourgueil Cuvee Domaine Rouge 2010
This wine is produced from 100% Cabernet Franc and shows hints of raspberries
and cherries on the nose. There are fine tannins providing structure to the wine
and the wonderful fruit shines through. Drink this wine with good cheese or a
roast dinner. No oak is used in the production of this wine.
Chambers Wines, one of the leading wine merchants in New York, send out an informative newsletter. In a recent edition they had this to say about the Cuvee Domaine 2010:
"It's terrific! While a bit lighter than the excellent 2009, it has a more balanced palate and gorgeously pure black and red fruit aromas. Blackberry and dark strawberry confit predominate on the palate, with limestone and refreshing acidity framing the intense material. It stays light on it's feet, at 12% alcohol and will accompany a wide variety of foods."
RRP: $23
Certified organic by Ecocert
Domaine Stéphane Guion Bourgueil Cuvee Prestige Rouge 2009
This wine is also 100% Cabernet Franc but has had some oak treatment. This is a
fine, savoury wine with lovely tannins and good length on the palate. There is a
streak of acidity running through this wine that will ensure that it will lasrt
for many, many years. It
represents excellent value for money and is currently drinking very well, but
will also last for a considerable time in the cellar.
Once again a quote from the Chambers Wines Newsletter:
"From 40 to 80 year-old vines on clay-limestone
slopes in Bourgueil, certified organic since 1965. Tasted from barrel in
February, 2011: "Complex red fruit, spice and floral aromas, full palate of
black fruits, cassis and strawberry liqueur. Stays fresh and light on it's feet
with good acidity and a very earthy finish." The bottling has tightened up the
wine considerably - the aromas are more restrained with earthy strawberry, brown
spice, game and licorice. The palate is tight with high acidity and chalky berry
fruit, with the richness of this vintage waiting to open. This is an outstanding
Bourgueil that will need long decanting for current enjoyment. Best after five
to ten years, this wine should age beautifully with peak drinking being between
10 and 20 years of age. This is certainly one of the greatest values in the
store!"
RRP: $25
Certified organic by Ecocert