The 2021 Cuvée Les Malgagnes from Domaine Y Amirault is a distinctive red wine from the Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil AOC, nestled within the Touraine sub-region of France’s Loire Valley. This wine is typically crafted from Cabernet Franc, the emblematic grape of the appellation, and 2021’s vintage reflects both freshness and vibrant fruit expression, owing to the cool climate. The soils in this part of Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil are a mix of sand and gravel over limestone, contributing finesse and an elegant mineral spine to the wine. Vinification at Y Amirault is carried out with a focus on purity: hand-harvested grapes are meticulously sorted and generally fermented with indigenous yeasts, often in large oak vats or stainless steel, to preserve the varietal character, followed by a period of maturation to round out the structure.
Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil sits on the northern banks of the Loire River, an area with a rich viticultural history that dates back to the Middle Ages and benefited from monastic viticulture. The climate is markedly temperate, influenced by the river, offering cool nights and sunny days that help preserve the natural acidity and aromatic profile of Cabernet Franc. The terroir’s unique composition of tuffeau limestone and gravel endows the wines with both freshness and longevity, typifying the classic restrained yet charming style of Loire reds.
For food pairings, this cuvée’s supple tannins and delicate red fruit notes, highlighted by hints of raspberry, wild strawberry, and subtle vegetal undertones, make it a perfect companion to charcuterie, roast poultry, and grilled pork chops. It pairs exceptionally well with goat cheese, a local speciality, or can accompany dishes like rillettes and tourte de légumes. For a more rustic approach, try pairing it with Loire river fish cooked in red wine sauce, a nod to regional cuisine.
When serving, decanting the wine for thirty minutes can help open up its aromatic bouquet, especially in a youthful vintage like 2021. The ideal tasting temperature is between 14-16°C, which will showcase the wine’s fresh fruit and delicate tannin structure to best effect. Enjoy it within the next five to seven years for optimal vibrancy and finesse.
