Stater-West/Brendan Saumur Rouge La Ripaille 2018

92 points Stephan Reinhardt (Wine Advocate): “From a single, west-facing parcel in Brézé that was planted in the 1960s on a sandy loam layer topping Turonian limestone comes the 2018 Saumur Rouge La Ripaille. A pure Cabernet Franc, it opens with a fine and concentrated yet discreet, calm and elegant nose of dark fruits and spices. Macerated fully destemmed in the infusion style, with no pump-overs or punch-downs in concrete for nine days and then aged on fine lees for 12 months in small, used barrels and a further six months in stainless steel, the medium to full-bodied wine comes onto the palate elegant and seamlessly textured, with juicy, elegant fruit, fine tannins and a firm and refreshing mineral acidity, yet it remains a bit reductive or caged for the moment. Nevertheless, this is a promising, fleshy and seriously structured Cabernet that was bottled unfined and with a light filtration. 13% alcohol. Tasted in May 2021. Drink: 2022-2036. (Oct 2021)”

90 points Wine Spectator: “[$60 list] This red sports an elegant feel, with ripe, fleshy notes of plum sauce, dark cherry and coffee. The acidity gives it a lift and makes it vibrant, while medium tannins provide support and structure. Good length. Drink now through 2027. 242 cases made, 90 cases imported. (2021)”