September 3, 2018 - Started a little funky and then became more focused.
Balanced, a little on the lighter side, classic cab franc with no hint of bell pepper notes with a touch of rusticity.
Tobacco, leafy, dark fruits with nice acidity.
Definitely ready to drink and I don't see it improving over time.
December 1, 2012 - Bright ruby red in the glass. Strong strawberry and cassis nose. It tastes like strawberry, tart cherry, cranberry, green olive, moss and forest floor. Very dominant fruit with a funky backend, like many good rock bands. Quite a bit of acidity here: you could actually feel it tingle on the esophagus. This was a fun Loire Valley red that went wonderfully with dinner, although for something this light in alcohol, it had surprising kick.
May 11, 2011 - Ruby red. Initially the nose showed some serious funk. I thought Brett at first, but it blew off for the most part with some air, so it was more likely sulfur/reduction. Some red fruit, but hard to pinpoint through the earthy reductive aromatics. Medium bodied wine with some tart cherry and earth, lots of green pepper and high acidity. The tannins are prominent and green. This drinks quite austere and dry. Medium finish with more green notes.
This is my second Alliet in the last month. Both young, and both impressively structured. Someday these will likely be enjoyable, but between this and the 2008 VV I had, neither are in a place of enjoyment right now. Food helps, but one needs something gamey like lamb to derive much here. I like Loire Cab Franc, but this is a producer I may not look to very often in the future.
January 30, 2011 - Very similar to the 2006 in its aromatic profile but with a higher acidity and a little less weight. A great Chinon. Beautiful nose with light green olive, tobacco and dark fruits. A touch floral. Silky, smooth tannins, elegant with a long finish.
August 2, 2010 - Cooked
May 13, 2010 - Classic Chinon. I'll have another.