Jacky Blot Domaine de la Butte Bourgueil Le Haut de la Butte, Loire, France 2019 (750ml)

Having earned his stellar reputation in Montlouis (with Taille aux Loups) and Vouvray, Jacky Blot turned his attention to the previously-overlooked neighboring region of Bourgueil in 2002. To anyone familiar with his original properties, it is no surprise that he is a forerunner in bringing new life to the region. Here, his Cabernet Franc vines average over 30 years of age; his minimal-intervention methods involve no fining or filtering, and the wines are barrel-aged (20% new, 80% 1-2 years old). The result is fully-dimensional: aromas of ripe sour cherry and bramble carry a delicate violet note, backed by sweet spices and cigar tobacco. The palate is fresh and tuat, with a red-fruit core supported by rich soil and woody herbs through the long finish. Enjoy with pork chops, baked sausage pasta, or mushroom-heavy dishes.