Viniou Reviews
Château Montguéret Saumur Rouge embodies the finesse and character typical of red wines from the Loire Valley. Produced predominantly from Cabernet Franc, with occasional blends of Cabernet Sauvignon or Pineau d’Aunis, this non-vintage cuvée reveals the versatility and skill of the estate’s winemaking. The grapes flourish on the tuffeau-rich soils that define the Saumur AOC, endowing the wine with freshness and subtle minerality. Vinification typically occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve delicate fruit aromas, yielding a wine of expressive red berry notes, delicate floral overtones and a refined, supple tannic structure.
The Saumur appellation, nestled in the heart of the historical Loire Valley, enjoys a temperate oceanic climate with pronounced continental influences. Warm summers and gentle slopes ensure optimal ripening, while the chalky soils, famed for their role in local architecture and sparkling wines, impart a unique elegance and vibrancy to the reds. The region’s winemaking heritage dates back to the Middle Ages, and Saumur remains celebrated for both its sparkling and still wines, prized for their fresh, food-friendly profiles.
For food pairings, this Saumur Rouge’s freshness and soft tannins make it remarkably versatile on the table. It is an excellent match for charcuterie boards, grilled pork tenderloin or roasted poultry, while its subtle earthy notes complement classic mushroom-based dishes such as a creamy mushroom fricassée. Loire specialities such as rillettes de Tours or a goat’s cheese tart work harmoniously, drawing out the wine’s delicate aromatics and balancing its gentle acidity.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this red at a slightly cool temperature of 14-16°C to enhance its fruit-driven profile and highlight the subtle florals without obscuring the finesse of its texture. Decanting is generally not necessary for a non-vintage Loire red, but allowing it a few minutes to breathe can help the bouquet open beautifully.
