Wines Saint-Nicolas-De-Bourgueil Frédéric Mabileau - Eclipse - 2008

This bottle hails from the renowned Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil appellation in the Loire Valley, crafted by the domaine of Frédéric Mabileau. The wine, named “Cuvée Eclipse” from the 2008 vintage, is a red (rouge) produced according to certified organic principles. While the precise blend is not specified, wines from this area are most commonly made with Cabernet Franc, though an exact cépage confirmation would require further detail. The 2008 vintage suggests a mature wine, likely boasting harmonious integration of fruit and tertiary notes, with structure softened by time.

Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil is a celebrated subregion of Touraine, distinguished by its unique terroir. Vineyards here are typically planted on gentle slopes composed of gravelly, sandy, or tuffeau limestone soils, which give the wines their characteristic freshness and minerality. The climate benefits from both oceanic and continental influences, resulting in temperate conditions ideally suited to producing refined and expressive reds. The region has a long heritage of viticulture, dating back centuries, and is revered for producing elegant, age-worthy wines, particularly under conscientious producers like Frédéric Mabileau.

Cuvée Eclipse, being a Loire red in a classic style, is beautifully matched to a variety of dishes. Traditional pairings from the region include slow-cooked pork with prunes, free-range chicken with wild mushrooms, or rillettes on fresh bread. It would also sit well alongside roasted duck, grilled vegetables, or a selection of soft goat’s cheeses such as Sainte-Maure de Touraine. The wine’s maturity can complement savoury dishes and allows it to shine with complex, earthy flavours.

For the optimal tasting experience, this red wine should be served slightly cool, ideally around 15-17°C. Allowing the bottle to breathe for a short while before serving will further help express its evolved aromas and layered palate. Enjoy this cuvée now, as its maturity offers a glimpse into the nuanced beauty of aged Loire reds.