Domaine Yannick Amirault: A Pioneer of Exceptional Cabernet Franc
Domaine Yannick Amirault: A Loire Valley Pioneer of Cabernet Franc
Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, Domaine Yannick Amirault stands as a testament to generations of passion and dedication to crafting exceptional Cabernet Franc wines. Founded in 1977 by Yannick Amirault, the estate has grown from a modest 3.9 hectares inherited from his grandfather to an impressive 20 hectares spanning the appellations of Bourgueil and Saint-Nicolas de Bourgueil. His son Benoit joined the winery in 2003, and together they continue to flourish, ensuring the future is as exceptional as their wines.
Recognizing the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship, he embarked on the conversion of his vineyards to organic farming in the early 1990s. This commitment to sustainable practices culminated in the estate's well-deserved organic certification in 2009. Yannick Amirault's approach to winemaking is deeply rooted in tradition, honoring the time-tested methods that have been passed down through generations. Hand-harvesting, careful grape sorting, and minimal intervention in the cellar are hallmarks of his philosophy. He believes in allowing the grapes to express their terroir, their unique character derived from the soil and climate of the Loire Valley.
At the heart of Domaine Yannick Amirault's philosophy lies a profound understanding of Cabernet Franc, the noble grape that reigns supreme in the Loire Valley. Yannick's meticulous approach to winemaking allows the grape's inherent elegance and complexity to shine through. Hand-harvested grapes undergo careful sorting and fermentation in small batches, preserving the purity and intensity of the fruit. Traditional methods, such as foot treading and long maceration are employed to coax forth the grape's maximal potential.
Through his meticulous winemaking practices and unwavering commitment to terroir expression, Yannick Amirault has established Domaine Yannick Amirault as a beacon of excellence in the Loire Valley. His wines are a testament to his passion, skill, and deep respect for the Cabernet Franc grape, capturing the essence of the region's unique terroir. Domaine Yannick Amirault's wines are typically aged in a combination of French oak barrels, demi-muids, and amphorae.The amount of new oak used varies depending on the wine, but it is generally kept to a minimum in order to preserve the purity of fruit and freshness of the wines. His main goal is to preserve the terroir expression of his beloved Cabernet Franc.
Domaine Amirault produces a captivating range of wines, each showcasing the elegance and finesse of Cabernet Franc.
Bourgueil Le Grand Clos 2021: Aroma: Black currants, red plums, wild berries, with hints of dried herbs and spices.Taste: Medium-bodied with ripe fruit flavors, firm tannins, and a long, mineral-driven finish.
Saint-Nicolas de Bourgueil Les Malgagnes 2021: Aroma: Red cherries, raspberries, strawberries, with hints of floral and licorice notes. Taste: Medium-bodied with bright, juicy fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and a soft, lingering finish.
Bourgueil Cote 50 2022: Aroma: Black cherries, blackberries, cassis, with hints of smoke and pepper. Taste: Full-bodied with rich, concentrated fruit flavors, firm tannins, and a long, complex finish.
Saint-Nicolas de Bourgueil La Mine 2022: Aroma: Red currants, wild strawberries, raspberries, with hints of earth and minerality. Taste: Medium-bodied with fresh, vibrant fruit flavors, lively acidity, and a clean, mineral-driven finish.
As we tasted these wines I was struck by a common theme, the purity of the fruit and its expressive nature. Domaine Yannick Amirault's wines are known for their purity, savoryness, and soulfulness. They showcase the diversity and complexity of Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley, offering an impressive experience for any wine lover.
