2006 Jean-Maurice Raffault "Clos des Capucins" Chinon (Previously $26)

92 points Wine Spectator: "Really packed for the vintage, with nearly lush raspberry ganache and blackberry fruit flavors laid over bittersweet cocoa, macerated olive and spice. The long, fine-grained finish lets the minerality shine. Drink now through 2011. 50 cases imported." (12/08) Smack dab in the middle of the Loire Valley, near Tours, you can fine the famed estate of Jean-Maurice Raffault. Now run by his son, Rodolphe, the estate has been family run since 1693 and continues to put out benchmark Chinons. This is a new and very special bottling of one of the finest vineyard sites in Chinon. And, what could be considered a "Grand Cru" vineyard that dates back to 1790. Only one-half hectares of Cabernet Franc with an average age of 50 years are planted on the south-facing terraced slope. The clay-siliceous soil and fantastic exposure ensures optimal ripening conditions. After a 28-day maceration period and a fermentation process that is done in new and 1- to 2-year-old barriques. The wine is allowed to rest in the old cool limestone cellars for 18 months before bottling. This is a very sexy and expressive Chinon. Bright red cherries and spice intertwine with dark berries and chocolate. Supple tannin structure and gentle minerality lends its hand to the focus and complexity of the wine. Opens up nicely in the glass and could benefit from some time in the bottle.