Commentary and analysis of the Domaine des Closiers, 2020 Saumur-Champigny “Les Closiers”

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Chambers in Manhattan - the post-pandemic reincarnation of Racines NY, which existed in the same space. The food, hospitality and vibe exceeded my expectations. But let’s be serious here. I went to Chambers for the wine list.

Commentary and analysis of the Manoir de la Bellonnière (Patrice et Alexandre Moreau), 2020 Chinon ‘Les Battereaux’

Commentary and analysis of the Aurélien Revillot, 2018 Bourgueil “Sur Les Hauts”

Commentary and analysis of the Domaine Arnaud Lambert (Château de Brézé), 2011 Saumur Rouge ‘Clos de l’Etoile’

Lenoir Chinon is somewhat of a unicorn in wine circles. Produced in miniscule quantities, and released periodically to the market, and only then after a very long elevage, these wines are very hard to find.

After first committing to curating a list of my most memorable wines of the year, I looked back with a moment of pause and a regretful "UGH" at the thought of having to "choose" some of my favourite wines of the year. I mean, these wines are like my children, I love them all so dearly, how can I pick my favourites? Then upon further reflection, and reviewing my photos, videos and notes from 2021, I did realize that there were indeed some standout Cabernet Francs that I enjoyed this year, although perhaps not for the most obvious reasons.