Wines Saumur Puy-Notre-Dame Domaine L'Austral - Vigneaux - 2018

Domaine L’Austral’s 2018 Saumur Puy-Notre-Dame “Cuvée Vigneaux” comes from the heart of Anjou-Saumur in the Loire Valley, a region celebrated for its refined red wines. While Cabernet Franc is typically the grape of choice for Saumur reds, and is suggested here, the precise composition may vary, so it’s best to focus on the wine’s likely style. In the glass, you can expect a vibrant and expressive red, with fragrant notes that might recall red fruits—think cherry and raspberry—underpinned by delicate floral, herbal or even slightly earthy nuances. The palate should offer an elegant balance, showcasing supple tannins, bright acidity, and a lively, medium-bodied structure. Vinification in Saumur tends towards gentle extraction to preserve fruit purity and finesse, with careful ageing to let the wine express both varietal character and the unique terroir.

The Saumur Puy-Notre-Dame appellation sits within a gently undulating landscape of limestone-rich soils, benefiting from a temperate climate tempered by Atlantic influences. The tuffeau limestone, a hallmark of the region, doesn’t just carve out beautiful cellars—it lends freshness and a subtle mineral character to the wines. Saumur’s viticultural heritage dates back centuries to ecclesiastical and aristocratic patronage, and today the area is prized for its expressive, food-friendly reds.

As for pairings, this style of Saumur rouge shines with a broad range of dishes. Classic regional matches include rillauds (slow-cooked pork belly), rillons, or a savoury tarte aux champignons—mushroom tart. Its acidity and polished tannins are equally well-suited to grilled poultry, roast duck breast, or lentil-based vegetarian dishes. If you prefer cheese, a Saint-Maure de Touraine or Tomme de Savoie would make a delightful accompaniment.

For the best experience, serve this wine lightly chilled at around 15-17°C. Decanting for an hour can help awaken its aromatics and soften any youthful structure, allowing you to appreciate its subtle Loire elegance in full.