A Classic Chinon

[Scoop]

Looking for an elegant, tasty Chinon?

Try the 1996 Olga Raffault "Les Picasses" (100% Cabernet Franc), a great example of a classic Chinon ($13.99 retail).

It's a gorgeous ruby-red, beautifully balanced, with a black cherry and Red Zinger nose that also shows in the palate -- plus some nice (moist) soil undertones. Medium-high acidity, medium tannins, medium body, medium alcohol and a nice, stately finish. It is drinking now, but it could go another year in the bottle and probably improve.

Cheers,

Scoop