VERY LIMITED — RARE ALLOCATION

Domaine du Collier is one of the most revered estates in Saumur, founded by Antoine Foucault, son of the late Charly Foucault of Clos Rougeard. Alongside his wife Caroline, Antoine has quietly established a tiny domaine whose wines have become highly sought-after by collectors and sommeliers.

Saumur-Champigny 2022 comes from old Cabernet Franc vines near Antoine's home in Saumoussay, a particularly prized area where vineyard land is exceptionally scarce. With vines effectively impossible to purchase, the opportunity to establish and maintain vineyards here is extraordinarily rare.

The 2022 is a beautifully expressive Cabernet Franc, combining perfumed dark fruits, violets, flowers, spice and liquorice with the silky texture and precision that define Domaine du Collier. There is a wonderful contrast between the wine's gourmand, almost sensual depth and its remarkable purity and freshness.

The palate is satiny and lively, with concentrated dark fruit framed by fine tannins and a subtle mineral character. A saline finish adds further tension and length, leaving the wine fresh and lifted despite its depth.

A serious and highly age-worthy Saumur-Champigny from one of the Loire's most elusive producers. A beautiful wine now, but one with the structure and purity to reward extended cellaring.

92/100 — Rebecca Gibb MW, Vinous

Grape: 100% Cabernet Franc
Region: Saumur-Champigny, Loire Valley, France
Vintage: 2022
Style: Dry red
Vineyard: Old vines, Saumoussay
Farming: Manual, traditional viticulture
Winemaking: Traditional, gentle extraction
Cellaring: Excellent potential